Walter Pater 
Marius the Epicurean (Vol. 1&2) 
Philosophical Novel

In ‘Marius the Epicurean’ Vol. 1&2, Walter Pater explores the life and moral development of a young Roman Stoic philosopher, Marius. The novel intricately weaves together themes of philosophy, classical literature, and spirituality, inviting readers to ponder the meaning of life and the pursuit of virtue. Pater’s lyrical and descriptive prose captures the beauty and complexity of ancient Rome, immersing the reader in a world of intellectual pursuits and philosophical debates. The book’s elegantly crafted narrative style reflects Pater’s own beliefs in the importance of aesthetic experience and the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment. Through Marius’s journey, Pater offers a profound meditation on the human experience and the quest for personal growth and fulfillment. Walter Pater, a Victorian essayist and critic, drew inspiration from his own studies of classical philosophy and literature, as well as his fascination with the aesthetics of art and literature. His scholarly background and deep understanding of ancient civilizations shine through in ‘Marius the Epicurean, ‘ showcasing his intellectual prowess and literary talent. Pater’s exploration of Marius’s philosophical awakening reflects his own interest in the nuances of human thought and behavior, making the novel a captivating and thought-provoking read. For readers interested in philosophical literature, historical fiction, or Victorian prose, ‘Marius the Epicurean’ by Walter Pater is a must-read. Pater’s rich descriptions and philosophical insights offer a unique perspective on classical antiquity and the eternal quest for wisdom and self-discovery.

About the author

Walter Pater, born on August 4, 1839, in Shadwell, London, was a notable figure in the 19th-century literary world, renowned for his essays on art, literature, and society. He is best remembered today for his precise and poetic prose, his role in the Aesthetic Movement, and his influence on the works of Oscar Wilde and other late Victorian writers. Pater’s ‘Marius the Epicurean’, a philosophical novel released in two volumes in 1885, is a notable work of fiction that reflects his interest in the interplay between life and art, and the pursuit of beauty. The novel explores the spiritual and intellectual development of its protagonist, Marius, in the setting of ancient Rome, embodying Pater’s ideas on aestheticism and the philosophies of Epicureanism and Stoicism. Considered one of the erudite scholars of his time, Pater attended Queen’s College, Oxford, where he later embarked on a career as a university tutor. His eloquent lectures and writings, such as his first major work, ‘Studies in the History of the Renaissance’ (1873), lay the foundation for his literary style, which emphasizes the sensory experience of art and life. Pater’s work often oscillates between the realms of criticism and fiction, thereby blurring the boundaries of genres. He was, in essence, an advocate for the pursuit of intellectual and aesthetic pleasures. Pater passed away on July 30, 1894, leaving behind a legacy marked by his exploration of the aesthetic experience and his contribution to Victorian literature.