Why was Marcus Aurelius hated?

Answer 1

Marcus Aurelius was not universally hated, but he faced criticism for various reasons during his reign. Some viewed him as a harsh ruler due to his military campaigns and the challenges of managing the Roman Empire during a time of crisis, including the Antonine Plague. Additionally, his stoic philosophy, which emphasized self-discipline and duty, may have alienated some who preferred a more indulgent lifestyle. His reliance on his adoptive son Commodus, whose erratic behavior was well-known, also contributed to discontent among the Roman elite.