Epicurus for today...

Amazon The Essential Epicurus
"Epicureanism is commonly regarded as the refined satisfaction of physical desires. As a philosophy, however, it also denoted the striving after an independent state of mind and body, imperturbability, and reliance on sensory data as the true basis of knowledge. Epicurus (ca. 341-271 B.C.) founded one of the most famous and influential philosophical schools of antiquity. In these remains of his vast output of scientific and ethical writings, we can trace Epicurus' views on atomism, physical sensation, duty, morality, the soul, and the nature of the gods."

Greening Inveresk Precinct

View Greening Inveresk Precinct in a larger map

The Histories by Herodotus 450 BC

The Histories by Herodotus 450 BC, what a fantastic read.  If you want a view from one of the highest mountains of history then read his book .  Like reading a 2500 year old lonely planet guide.