Recent Additions to the Epicureans' Book Selections

Our book selections are chosen to offer a diverse range of themes, perspectives, and opportunities for deep discussion. For this cycle, we have selected works that reflect contrasting approaches to personal reflection and resilience, explore significant figures and ideas in literature and philosophy, and introduce both classic and contemporary voices. By including philosophical meditations, a landmark literary novel, and a modern autobiography, we hope to encourage engaging conversations and new insights for all members.

Marc-Aurèle, Pensées pour moi-même

Marc-Aurèle's Pensées pour moi-même, followed by the Manuel d’Épicète, is available in English as Meditations. (Aurelius, 2003) This work comprises a series of private notes by the emperor, written in ancient Greek, reflecting on Stoic philosophy. (Aurelius, 180) Meditations is divided into twelve books and is accessible to a broad readership. (Aurelius, 2005) Through these notes, Marcus Aurelius examines themes such as self-judgment, the judgment of others, and the cultivation of a cosmic perspective. Although written nearly two thousand years ago, Marcus’s reflections remain strikingly relevant in our world of constant information overload and social media pressures. (The Invisible Tyranny of Notifications, 2025) His approach to filtering out distractions and focusing on what truly matters offers practical guidance for anyone seeking calm and clarity amidst today’s noise. (A Stoic’s Guide to Minimalism, 2025) As you read, consider moments in your own life where Stoic ideas could help you navigate challenges or make decisions. Members are encouraged to share any experiences where the reflections of Marcus Aurelius have resonated with them or made a difference. An excerpt follows:

“You have the power to strip away many superfluous troubles located wholly in your judgment, and to possess a large room for yourself embracing in thought the whole cosmos, to consider everlasting time, to think of the rapid change in the parts of each thing, of how short it is from birth until dissolution, and how the void before birth and that after dissolution are equally infinite.”

As you reflect on this passage, consider: How might adopting a broader, cosmic perspective influence your daily reactions and priorities? In moments of stress or distraction, what would it mean to pause and see your challenges within the wider context of time and the universe?

Readers will encounter additional themes, including guidance on maintaining moral character, reflections on the nature of virtue, advice on handling adversity, discussions of accepting fate, and suggestions for developing inner strength. The book also addresses topics such as the temporary nature of worldly concerns, dealing with criticism, and fostering empathy and compassion toward others. These insights provide readers with practical tools for applying Stoic principles across various aspects of daily life. (Epictetus and the Pursuit of Inner Strength, n.d.)

Wuthering Heights by Emily Brontë

Wuthering Heights is the sole novel by Emily Brontë, first published in 1847 under the pen name Ellis Bell. (Brontë, 1847) The narrative centres on two large estates and their landowning families, the Earnshaws and the Lintons, set on the West Yorkshire moors, and explores the turbulent relationship of Heathcliff, the Earnshaws' foster son. (Brontë, 1847) Recognised as a classic of English literature, Wuthering Heights is particularly recommended for readers interested in English literature, romance, or works authored by women. (Brontë, 1847)

The novel is characterised by motifs of love, possession, revenge, passion, and reconciliation. There is a new film adaptation, directed by Emerald Fennell and starring Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi, currently in cinemas. (Wuthering Heights (2026 film), 2026) For those who appreciate romantic or traditional literature, it is advisable to read the novel before watching the film.

To enrich our upcoming discussion, you might consider the following questions as you read:

- How do the themes of love and revenge shape the characters' relationships and their destinies?

- In what ways does the setting of the moors influence the story’s atmosphere and the actions of its characters?

- Do you think any character is truly sympathetic? Why or why not?

- What observations can you make about social class and family in the novel?

- How does Brontë’s portrayal of passion challenge or reinforce Victorian attitudes toward love and morality?

Feel free to bring any other thoughts or questions to our coming meetings for a lively conversation.

Tibo InShape: Mon histoire is an autobiographical account by Tibo InShape, a French personal trainer and entrepreneur, reportedly followed by 60 million people according to his website. (Tibo InShape dévoile « Derrière la lumière », un livre intime sur sa vie, sa carrière et ses combats, 2025) The book details the origins of his career and the pivotal moments that shaped his development, and also highlights his role as the founder of Inshape Nutrition, his own nutrition brand. (Our story - Inshape Nutrition, 2025) This work is recommended for readers interested in personal development and entrepreneurship.

References

Aurelius, M. (2003). Meditations by Marcus Aurelius. Penguin Classics. https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/meditations

Aurelius, M. (180). Meditations. Book 1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Meditations

Aurelius, M. (2005). Meditations by Marcus Aurelius. Penguin Classics.

https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/624261/meditations-by-marcus-aurelius/

(2025). The Invisible Tyranny of Notifications. The Third Citizen. https://www.thethirdcitizen.com/p/the-invisible-tyranny-of-notifications

(2025). A Stoic’s Guide to Minimalism. The Stoicism Way. https://thestoicismway.com/daily-stoic-practice/stoic-minimalism/

(n.d.). Epictetus and the Pursuit of Inner Strength. Stoic Life Hub. https://www.stoiclifehub.com/pages/epictetus-and-the-pursuit-of-inner-strength.php

Brontë, E. (1847). Wuthering Heights. Thomas Cautley Newby. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wuthering_Heights

(February 13, 2026). Wuthering Heights (2026 film). Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wuthering_Heights_%282026_film%29

(October 23, 2025). Tibo InShape dévoile « Derrière la lumière », un livre intime sur sa vie, sa carrière et ses combats. Body-Burn. https://www.body-burn.com/actualites/news/tibo-inshape-derriere-la-lumiere-livre-confession/

(2025). Our story - Inshape Nutrition. Inshape Nutrition. https://en.inshape-nutrition.com/pages/notre-histoire