Book Recommendations
Updated: Apr 20
A personally curated list of books for Astrology, Stoicism, and Jungian Psychology.
Below are various book and resources that I recommend for anyone wanting to deepen their knowledge in Hellenistic Astrology, Stoic Philosophy, and Jungian Psychology. The books will range from beginner friendly to more in-depth analyses. The list will be updated on a semi-frequent basis, so check back from time to time for new recommendations.
(Click the highlighted links to jump to preferred section)
Astrology
"Hellenistic Astrology: The Study of Fate and Fortune"
By Chris Brennan
This book is the compendium for Hellenistic Astrology knowledge. Chris does an amazing job at covering a wide variety of topics, all essential to the art of astrology. This is not a book you will read once and leave to collect dust. The first couple read throughs will have you taking notes and learning more than you bargained for, and then it'll become your go-to resource for all things Hellenistic Astrology. It might be a little overwhelming for absolute beginners, but if taken in stride, this book will give you astrological insights that will change the way you practice astrology for the better.
"Ancient Astrology in Theory and Practice: A Manual of Traditional Techniques"
By Demetra George
Demetra George is another name in the Hellenistic world that you should be aware of. This book is beginner friendly in the sense that Demetra breaks it down into digestible sections. There are questions for the reader to answer that help with making sure the material is being absorbed and comprehended before moving on. It's a great book for foundational learning in the Hellenistic tradition.
Stoic Philosophy
"Meditations"
By Marcus Aurelius
I carry a copy of this book with me everywhere I go. Since I'm a practicing Stoic, this is one of the essential texts that has shaped my life and worldview. Marcus Aurelius was the last great emperor of the Golden Age of Rome. "Meditations" is a record of his daily life through a Stoic lens. He speaks on daily irritations and how to handle them, and contemplates the Stoic virtues in all his actions. Fun fact: this book was never intended to be read by others. Marcus Aurelius wrote this more like a diary than a book that he thought would be widely distributed and cause him to be praised as one of the great Stoics. I rather like that detail because it shows how he truly was incorporating Stoicism in his life, and it also gives it a rather down to earth feel.
"Discourses and Selected Writings"
By Epictetus
Epictetus shows us that Stoicism isn't just for the ruling elite of its time. He was a slave for a good majority of his life, and after obtaining his freedom he went on to teach Stoicism. Epictetus didn't actually write down most of his teachings. It's thanks to a pupil of his named Arrian that we have these discourses. Throughout the book you'll read Epictetus's thoughts and lectures on topics like "To those who tackle philosophy just to be able to talk about it", "Concerning family affection", and "On tranquility". Epictetus may be my favorite Stoic due his rather blunt nature and at times sarcastic delivery.
"Letters From a Stoic"
By Seneca
Seneca completes the trifecta of the popular kids in Stoicism. He was an advisor to the Emperor Nero, so not such a good look there. He was ultimately accused of conspiracy against the objectively awful Emperor and ordered to death; which he accepted without a fight, showing his true Stoic nature. The Letters of Seneca talk about what it means to be a friend to others, and yourself. He discusses many moral issues and how to navigate them. The letters themselves were penned to his friend Lucilius, who he was trying to teach the ways of Stoicism to.
Jungian Psychology
"Beginner's Guide to Jungian Psychology"
By Robin Robertson
The hardest thing about Jungian Psychology is figuring out where to start. Jung's theories were anything but surface level. When this book said "Beginner's Guide" it truly meant it. It's a clear and easy to follow review of Jung's main theories and ideas. It walks the delicate balance of not watering down Jung's material, while being relatable to newbies to the Jungian world.