Why True Revenge is Never Served Best: A Lesson from Marcus Aurelius

The Nature of Revenge and Its Inefficacy

The act of seeking revenge is often seen as a form of satisfying a sense of justice or retribution for an injustice committed against oneself. However, the psychology behind revenge and its actual effects can be quite complex. In actuality, revenge is not a feasible response. What one perceives as a wrong is how they interpret the actions of others, and it is entirely within their power to frame these events. The concept of revenge involves a cycle of psychological and emotional manipulation, often leading to prolonged mental pain and injury to oneself.

Historical Context of Power and Corruption

History is replete with examples of individuals in positions of power succumbing to the allure of corruption and pleasure, neglecting their duties in favor of short-term gratification. One such figure is Emperor Marcus Aurelius, who, in stark contrast, remained steadfast in his duties and philosophies. Born into wealth and nobility, Marcus Aurelius was groomed from a young age to assume the throne of the Roman Empire.

The Stoic Philosophy and Marcus Aurelius

Marcus Aurelius was introduced to the philosophy of Stoicism during his youth, primarily through his mentor Rusticus, a rhetoric teacher. Stoicism teaches that virtue and reason are the ultimate goals in life, and that one should face life with a calm and composed demeanor, regardless of external circumstances. Meditations, attributed to Marcus, is a testament to his philosophical beliefs, where he frequently echoes the teachings of his Stoic mentors.

The Antonine Plague and Germanic Invasions

Upon becoming Emperor, Marcus Aurelius faced numerous challenges. The Antonine Plague, a devastating disease similar to smallpox, claimed millions of lives. Additionally, Marcus had to deal with the threat of Germanic tribes invading the empire’s northern borders and the betrayal of his trusted military commander, Avidius Cassius.

The Betrayal of Marcus by Cassius

Avidius Cassius, a prominent and influential general, was ordered to handle the threat of the Germanic tribes. When a rumor spread that Marcus was on his deathbed, Cassius, either opportunistic or out of genuine fear, proclaimed himself emperor. This act of betrayal deeply wounded Marcus, but he chose not to act immediately. Instead, he offered forgiveness and mercy to Cassius and his supporters, only to find that the rebellion was cut short by Cassius' own centurion. Cassius' death saddened Marcus, and he refused to view his decapitated head.

Stoic Values and Marcus' Response

Marcus Aurelius' response to the betrayal of Cassius exemplifies the Stoic approach to revenge. Rather than seeking retribution or engaging in a cycle of vengeance, he focused on maintaining peace and order. He made efforts to restore stability in the eastern region of the empire, traveling to Syria and Egypt to offer clemency and restore loyalty to Rome. His writings, such as Meditations, emphasize the importance of forgiveness and avoiding actions that would make one resemble their enemy.

Choosing Forgiveness Over Revenge

The phrase “The best revenge is not to be like your enemy” from Meditations encapsulates Marcus Aurelius' viewpoint on the futility of revenge. True forgiveness not only releases one from the bonds of resentment but also restores one's mental and emotional tranquility. It allows individuals to rise above the negativity perpetuated by vengeance and focus on living a life aligned with reason and virtue.

By forgiving and moving on, one can find peace and freedom from the mental burdens of revenge. This message holds relevance in today's world, where individuals often fall into the trap of seeking retribution at the cost of their mental and emotional health. Embracing forgiveness and the principles of Stoicism can lead to a more fulfilling and harmonious life.

Conclusion

Forgiveness, not revenge, is the path to peace and freedom. By heeding the lessons of history and philosophy, such as those exemplified by Emperor Marcus Aurelius, individuals can learn to navigate life's challenges with a calm and rational demeanor, ultimately achieving a more fulfilling existence.