6 Stoicism Books to Understand the Ancient Philosophy

A statue of Marcus Aurelius at Brown University. Aurelius wrote one of the best books about stoicism.

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Stoicism books explain this ancient philosophy, which advocates for focusing on the things you can control and accepting those out of your control. Stoicism books for beginners cover the history of the philosophy, which originated in ancient Greece under Zeno of Citium and became popular among leaders of the Roman Empire, such as Emperor Marcus Aurelius. Modern Stoicism books explain that many Christian, Islamic and Buddhist teachings align with elements of Stoicism, although it is not a religion in itself. Other books on Stoicism philosophy delve into the belief system, such as practicing moral responsibility and regulating internal dialogue to focus on self-improvement; critics sometimes argue this approach can lead to perfectionism, isolation and a rigid mindset. This list of the best Stoicism books encompasses both ancient and modern texts that create a deeper understanding of this philosophy.

Top Stoicism Books

Stoicism books explain the ideas behind and approach to the philosophy, while more advanced books examine how it applies to modern life or circumstances. Common themes in Stoicism self help books include understanding the dichotomy of control, cultivating virtue, developing resilience and adopting mindfulness.

People of all backgrounds and religious beliefs read books about Stoicism. They may pick up a book out of curiosity and later incorporate Stoic principles into their lives. Anyone feeling adrift, spiritually empty or confused can benefit from reading books about Stoicism. These books were selected based on the works’ enduring popularity and influence as well as how well the ideals they express hold up over time. They are ranked from beginner to more advanced texts.

6. How to Be a Stoic: Using Ancient Philosophy to Live a Modern Life by Massimo Pigliucci (2017)

Modern philosopher Massimo Pigliucci asks if an ancient philosophy can lead us to a good life in the modern world—and his answer is yes. This guide demonstrates how to apply Stoic principles to discover what is possible in life. It also shows how Stoicism can address quandaries, such as navigating a crisis.

This book is best for those with no prior knowledge of Stoicism. Massimo Pigliucci’s How to Be a Stoic is available from Hachette’s Basic Books.

5. The Daily Stoic by Ryan Holiday (2016)

For those looking for more hands-on guidance to adopting Stoicism, Ryan Holiday’s bestseller (2 million copies and counting) offers insights and exercises built on wisdom from the ancient texts of Zeno, Marcus Aurelius and Seneca. The daily meditations and directions provide pathways to the serenity and resilience that form the cornerstones of Stoicism.

This book is best for those looking to implement Stoic ideals into daily life or seeking resilience books. Ryan Holiday’s The Daily Stoic is available from publisher Penguin Random House.

4. A Guide to the Good Life: The Ancient Art of Stoic Joy by William B. Irvine (2008)

Philosophy professor William B. Irvine writes a roadmap for utilizing Stoicism to escape dissatisfaction with life. He incorporates firsthand insights from his own life experiences with Stoicism and teachings on how to decrease worry, focus on things in versus out of our control, and appreciate the things we have.

This book is best for those struggling to put Stoicism into action. William B. Irvine’s A Guide to the Good Life: The Ancient Art of Stoic Joy is available from publisher Oxford University Press.

3. Letters from a Stoic by Seneca (2015)

Originally written in 62-64 A.D. by Seneca, a Stoic philosopher who worked for Emperor Nero, this collection advocates for “virtuous living” and cutting off emotional ties. Although Seneca occasionally employs humor in the writings, he also conveys the moral structure of Stoicism beautifully and decries some barbarous Roman practices.

This book is best for those ready to advance their understanding of Stoicism. Seneca’s Letters from a Stoic is available from publisher Penguin Random House.

2. Determinism and Freedom in Stoic Philosophy by Suzanne Bobzien (1999)

Ready to take your reading a bit further? Scholar Suzanne Bobzien tackles the concept of free will and how it correlates with Stoic determinism. She brings in more modern philosophy scholarship while examining prickly questions of free will related to the ancient philosophy texts. It is dense but worth the effort.

This book is best for those with an advanced understanding of Stoicism. Suzanne Bobzien’s Determinism and Freedom in Stoic Philosophy is available from publisher Penguin Random House.

1. Meditations by Marcus Aurelius (2015)

Various versions of Marcus Aurelius’s worldview on Stoicism have become bestsellers, including this one on how to live a good life by adopting the late emperor’s habits and mindsets. Aurelius believed people could control their thoughts, and he argues a disciplined approach can protect you from pursuing unproductive or unimportant things.

This book is best for those who appreciate a straightforward approach to philosophy. Marcus Aurelius’s Meditations is available from Penguin Random House.

Bottom Line

Stoicism’s simplicity can be appealing in our go-go-go society. These powerful books break down the philosophy into a more digestible worldview and can help you adopt the approach as you consider what’s most important in your own life.