Marcus AureliusMarcus Aurelius (born April 26, AD 121, Rome-died March 17, 180). He was born into a wealthy and prominent family. Hadrian arranged for Marcus and Lucius Verus to be adopted by the designated future emperor, Antoninus Pius, who dutifully groomed Marcs as his heir. On his accession, Marcus nevertheless shared power with his adoptive brother as co-emperor, though he himself remained the more dominant. Though a man of gentle character and broad intelligence, Marcus opposed Christianity and supported the persecution of its adherents. His Meditations on Stoicism, considered one of the great books of all time, gives a full picture of his religious and moral values. His reign is often thought to mark the Golden Age of Rome. Read More Read Less