Marius the Epicurean

Marius the Epicurean, published in 1885, is a philosophical novel tracing the spiritual and intellectual journey of Marius, a young Roman during the reign of Marcus Aurelius. Written in lush, reflective prose, the novel explores classical philosophy, early Christianity, and aestheticism. Pater’s focus is not on plot but on introspection, beauty, and moral development. As a key text in the Aesthetic Movement, it deeply influenced late Victorian literature and thought, advocating a life of contemplation and refined sensibility.