Why Marcus Aurelius Believed 'The Art of Life is More Like Wrestling Than Dancing'

Marcus Aurelius' assertion that 'The Art of life is more like wrestling than dancing' reflects his Stoic philosophy emphasizing resilience, struggle, and the importance of facing challenges head-on. This metaphor highlights key aspects of Stoic thought and provides insights into Aurelius' own personal growth and practical philosophy.

Struggle and Resistance

Wrestling involves grappling with an opponent, symbolizing the challenges and adversities we face in life. Unlike dancing, which is often graceful and predictable, wrestling requires strength, strategy, and adaptability to overcome obstacles. This aligns with the Stoic belief that while we cannot control external events, we can control our responses to them.

Preparation and Response

In wrestling, one must be prepared for unexpected moves and must respond quickly to changing situations. This mirrors the Stoic view that we should not fear external events, but rather prepare ourselves mentally and physically to face them effectively. Aurelius often reflected on the importance of self-improvement and the idea that struggles can lead to personal development.

Personal Growth

Wrestling teaches us about our own limits and capabilities. It is through facing difficult challenges that we grow and develop resilience. Aurelius emphasized the importance of enduring hardships and developing mental and physical fortitude to confront life's uncertainties with courage and wisdom.

Practical Philosophy

Stoicism is a practical philosophy focused on how to live a virtuous life in the face of adversity. Aurelius likens life to wrestling to highlight the necessity of effort, discipline, and a commitment to overcoming challenges. This philosophy teaches us to see difficult situations as opportunities for growth rather than obstacles to be avoided.

A Practical Approach to Life

Marcus Aurelius uses this metaphor to convey that life is a continuous struggle requiring effort, adaptability, and resilience. This aligns with his Stoic beliefs about facing the trials of existence with courage and wisdom. The metaphor underscores the importance of preparing oneself for the unexpected and responding with grace and strength.

Aquinas Essay on Marcus Aurelius' Wisdom

Besides the metaphor, Marcus Aurelius invites us to adopt a practical approach to life. He believed that endurance and preparedness are crucial in the face of unanticipated hardships. Just as a wrestler must be mentally and physically ready for any move, so too must we be prepared for life's uncertainties.

Reading Meditations can provide further insights into Marcus Aurelius' thoughts and teachings. This book is a concise, easy-to-read collection of his personal reflections on Stoic philosophy. It is invaluable for anyone seeking to understand and apply Stoic principles in their daily lives.

Further Reading and Resource

Suggested Reading: You should definitely consider reading Meditations. It is a short, inexpensive, and easy-to-read book. Regardless of your age or background, you can understand and benefit from his clear and straightforward prose.