Marius the Epicurean · Question
How does Marius the Epicurean develop the theme of The Search for Moral Principle and Right Conduct?
Answer
Marius the Epicurean by Walter Pater develops The Search for Moral Principle and Right Conduct across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.
Marius grapples with finding a basis for ethical action beyond mere custom or self-interest, ultimately considering the Stoic idea of a universal commonwealth and the Christian ideal of a 'regenerate type of humanity' as sources of moral beauty.
Marius's sense of responsibility toward others and his anticipation of a great occasion for self-devotion illustrate his early moral seriousness.
Marius grapples with the exclusive claim of his childhood religion versus the temptation of unlimited self-expansion, feeling that the easy exercise of himself among temptations is a 'rival religious service.'
The chapter explores the tension between public religious duty and personal moral philosophy, as seen in Marcus Aurelius's combination of Stoic principles with polytheistic practice.
Evidence in the book
- II: White-Nights
Marius's sense of responsibility toward others and his anticipation of a great occasion for self-devotion illustrate his early moral seriousness.
- IV: The Tree of Knowledge
Marius grapples with the exclusive claim of his childhood religion versus the temptation of unlimited self-expansion, feeling that the easy exercise of himself among temptations is a 'rival religious service.'
- XI: “The Most Religious City in the World”
The chapter explores the tension between public religious duty and personal moral philosophy, as seen in Marcus Aurelius's combination of Stoic principles with polytheistic practice.
- XII: The Divinity That Doth Hedge a King
Aurelius's asceticism and Stoic philosophy are highlighted, emphasizing modesty, simplicity, and the sacrifice of body to soul.
- XIII: The "Mistress and Mother" of Palaces
Aurelius's Stoic philosophy emphasizes tolerance, not being exigent with others, and maintaining virtue despite rumors about Faustina; he strives to see the good in people.
- Manly Amusement
The chapter contrasts Marius's instinctive moral conscience with Aurelius's Stoic indifference, exploring the foundations of ethical judgment.
- Stoicism at Court
Fronto's discourse explores how to integrate duty and righteousness into a life guided by aesthetic pleasure, proposing that morality is a form of comeliness and artistic order.
- XVI: Second Thoughts
Marius considers the moral economy of his choices, questioning whether his philosophy misses essential aspects of human experience and ethical living.
