www.cancan.ro/p-marcus-aurelius-era-dezgustat-de-b

Marcus Aurelius, a prominent Roman emperor, viewed public baths negatively in his work "Meditations," describing them as dirty and unpleasant. His perspective reflects stoic philosophy, emphasizing the importance of seeing beyond superficial pleasures. While public baths were central to Roman social life, Aurelius focused on their less appealing aspects, such as sweat and grime, to remind himself not to be swayed by indulgence. Despite their grandeur, the baths had hygiene limitations, and while Roman engineering was advanced, it did not guarantee cleanliness. Aurelius's descriptions serve a philosophical purpose rather than a critique of hygiene.