How An Ancient Stoic Handled Being Cheated On

The Legends of History2 minutes read

Marcus Aurelius responded to his wife's infidelity by executing the Gladiator she cheated with and making her bathe in his blood, which was thought to have aphrodisiac properties.

Insights

  • Marcus Aurelius responded to his wife's infidelity with extreme measures, executing the Gladiator she cheated with and making her bathe in his blood to rekindle their passion, showcasing a brutal yet unconventional approach to marital issues.
  • The use of the Gladiator's blood as an aphrodisiac to reignite passion in the relationship highlights the ancient beliefs and practices surrounding love and intimacy, shedding light on the unique cultural perspectives of that era.

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Recent questions

  • Who was Marcus Aurelius?

    Roman Emperor

  • What is stoicism?

    Philosophy of self-control

  • How did Marcus Aurelius handle his wife's infidelity?

    Uniquely executed her lover

  • What is the Historia Augusta?

    Roman historical work

  • What is the significance of Marcus Aurelius in Roman history?

    Respected emperor and philosopher

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Summary

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Marcus Aurelius's Unique Response to Infidelity

  • Marcus Aurelius, known for his stoicism, handled his wife's infidelity uniquely by having the Gladiator she cheated with executed and then forcing her to bathe in his blood, as it was believed to rejuvenate passion due to its aphrodisiac properties, as per the Historia Augusta.
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