Marius the Epicurean · Question
How does Marius the Epicurean develop the theme of Epicurean Philosophy and the Pursuit of Pleasure?
Answer
Marius the Epicurean by Walter Pater develops Epicurean Philosophy and the Pursuit of Pleasure across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.
Marius's Epicurean leanings—focusing on the 'Ideal Now' and sensory experience—are critically examined, revealing the tension between the costly sacrifice of sympathies for intense moments and the search for a more enduring, meaningful happiness.
The chapter notes that Marius's serious nature persisted amid later Epicurean speculations, framing his philosophical journey.
The chapter explores Cyrenaic and Epicurean doctrines, focusing on pleasure as a guide to life, but reinterprets it as a 'general completeness of life' rather than mere hedonism.
Marius reinterprets Cyrenaic/Epicurean thought, rejecting crude hedonism for a pursuit of 'fullness of life' that includes noble pain, sorrow, and moral striving.
Evidence in the book
- II: White-Nights
The chapter notes that Marius's serious nature persisted amid later Epicurean speculations, framing his philosophical journey.
- VIII: Animula Vagula
The chapter explores Cyrenaic and Epicurean doctrines, focusing on pleasure as a guide to life, but reinterprets it as a 'general completeness of life' rather than mere hedonism.
- IX: New Cyrenaicism
Marius reinterprets Cyrenaic/Epicurean thought, rejecting crude hedonism for a pursuit of 'fullness of life' that includes noble pain, sorrow, and moral striving.
- XI: “The Most Religious City in the World”
Marius's Epicurean perspective is highlighted as he observes the religious fervor around him, ultimately rejecting the call to wasteful pleasures at the chapter's end.
- XII: The Divinity That Doth Hedge a King
Marius's internal reflection contrasts Aurelius's asceticism with the Epicurean pursuit of pleasure, as seen in Verus's hedonistic character.
- Stoicism at Court
Marius's intellectual scheme is Epicurean, seeking a many-sided existence, but he confronts the challenge of reconciling it with the 'old morality' and the pull of ethical beauty.
- XVI: Second Thoughts
Marius critically examines Cyrenaic Epicureanism, weighing its emphasis on refined sensation against the sacrifices of sympathy and tradition.
- Beata Urbs
Aurelius's detachment from material wealth and focus on mental peace contrasts with Epicurean ideals.
