About Marcus Aurelius and stoicism

Marcus Aurelius was a Roman emperor who practiced Stoicism, a philosophy that emphasizes stepping back from emotional and physical chaos to reach a state of calm and clear-headed thinking. Although Stoicism was conceived in ancient times, its guiding principles are still relevant today. Marcus Aurelius was also one of the most powerful leaders in European history, assuming control of the Roman empire at the height of its power. While he never claimed to be a Stoic, his Meditations offer readers a unique opportunity to see how an ancient person, even an emperor, might try to live a Stoic life.

The Theseus myth

In Greek Mythology, Minos’ son, Androgeos, had been “treacherously killed” while he was in Athens. Minos immediately sought revenge from the Athenians and as retribution he had them send to Crete several youths every seven or nine years to be devoured by Minotaur, a terrifying monster, half man half bull. The young Athenians were thrown into a dark maze, full of arcades and dead ends, wandering aimlessly, until the Minotaur would find them. Theseus, the son of the king of Athens Aegeus, did not endure this humiliation and demanded to be among the seven young men that were to be sent for the third time to the labyrinth. So, he arrived in Crete and met Minos’ daughter, Ariadne, with whom he fell in love.

Ariadne then gave Theseus a lame spinner (known as Ariadne’s thread) and advised him to tie his end to the entrance of the labyrinth and unwrap it so that he could find the exit after killing Minotaur. Theseus entered the dark arcades holding the mite and managed to kill the Minotaur by cutting off his head, thus ending Minos’ blood rage. Then he managed to return to the exit, following Ariadne’s thread. Theseus took Ariadne with him on his boat and began the journey to Athens. However, they made a stop on the island of Naxos, where they celebrated their love. While on the island, the god Dionysus appeared in Theseus’ dream and told him that he had to leave the island without Ariadne since she was meant to stay there and become Dionysus’ wife. Ariadne stayed in Naxos and married Dionysus, while Theseus returned to Athens. The two lovers never met again.

Theseus represents courage, leadership, strength, humility and sacrifice. Wear it with pride.

This ring is handcrafted from copper wire, UV resin and chameleon mica powder.