Stoic Philosophy of Seneca: Essays and Letters

Prior to reading this book I had read a variety of other works of Western philosophy, but in a mechanical way. I saw metaphysics, phenomenology, and epistemology as little more than intellectual games that some people enjoyed playing. Seneca made me realize that the true purpose of philosophy is to remind us how to live and die well. His oratorical flair is beautiful and engaging, his message personal and immediately applicable, and his philosophy resounds with truth. After drinking deeply of his words from this slim volume year after year my mind was opened to Plato and Aristotle and eventually to all of the great writers of the Western cannon. He has taught me how to live in the present while conversing with the past, how to let go of that which is outside of my control, and how to face misfortune and my own eventual death with the grit and equanimity of a man like Cato the Younger.This volume contains a very good selection of short letters and three long letters that are more than worthy for a person to use to guide their life: "On Providence," "On the Shortness of Life," and "On Tranquility." The other two long letters are a little more superfluous and I would have preferred his letter "On Anger," which is not included, over "Consolation of Helvia," but that is a minor complaint.

Even though this book was written over two thousand years ago, there is so much wisdom that is appropriate today.I must be honest and tell you that it is not an easy read. Writers of that age did not believe in simple sentence structure. And unless you are a student of ancient history, there are lots of references whom you will not know. However the value is so great that I recommend you spend the time and effort and learn from a great thinker.Thankfully we have moved to a democratic form of government. The rulers of that day generally ruled by brute force, eliminating those who opposed them. A large part of his writings were to teach people how to deal with the problems of the day.While our problems are different in name, the underlying principles for dealing with them have not changed. We have learned more about the mind and how it works, so his discourse on the mind is a little dated.Some examples of his insight:"It is not that we have so little time but that we lose (waste) so much.""Many people, I imagine could attain wisdom if they were not convinced they already had it, ...""...we are tormented alike by the future and the past. Our superiority brings us much distress; memory recalls the torment of fear, foresight anticipates it. No one confines his misery to the present."His lessons are still very valuable today.

I bought this book as an introduction to explore Stoicism in the words of one of its major practicing thinkers. I found it full of very wise insights and made me want to read more of this philosopher's writings. I have since moved on to read Seneca's complete works on Stoic ethics from the Loeb Classical Library collection after the good impression that the selections from this book left in me. However, even if you don't intend to pursue the topic in such detail this is a book that can be fully appreciated on its own and is fairly representative of his overall philosophical concerns (pursue virtue through reason, use time wisely, do not let your emotions dictate your actions, abolish your fear of death, philosophy leads to a serene mind under any situation, etc). Seneca is truly one of the great thinkers from ancient times whose well developed opinions we could all benefit greatly from, today and forever.

This book is filled with wisdom. I find myself sharing passages with my wife. She even typed up a Seneca passage and has it on her desk at work.Seneca was a Stoic, and while I am not one, I find myself fed by this perspective on life. Seneca will help you focus on what is under your control, live with more equanimity, focus on the things that are of value, and live a rich and virtuous life.

Fabulous thought provoking and life influencing ideas that are timelessly helpful. Amazing how solid ideas from such an amazing man have stood the test of time. Seneca was not perfect but his ideas and perspective will help you live a better life if you read and integrate into your life what might work for you.

If you are a stoic, or wish to study stoicism, start here. The author provides rigorous introduction (worth reading) and translation. Seneca is a friend, a great companion, a mentor, teacher, and deep thinker (without elitism slant). Must read. Another book to have closeby, in your bag, on your nightstand, and reread every year.

The first three essays "on providence", "on the shortness of life" and "on tranquility" every one should read. The

I did not know what to expect from this as it was recommended by a friend. It was brilliant. One of the best I have ever read. Seneca was far ahead of this time and the thoughts and philosophical approaches are as applicable today, as they will be 101 years from now.