Dialogues and Essays
Oct 2007 · OUP Oxford
4.6star
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About this ebook
'No man is crushed by misfortune unless he has first been deceived by prosperity.' In these dialogues and essays the Stoic philosopher Seneca outlines his thoughts on how to live in a troubled world. Tutor to the young emperor Nero, Seneca wrote exercises in practical philosophy that draw upon contemporary Roman life and illuminate the intellectual concerns of the day. They also have much to say to the modern reader, as Seneca ranges widely across subjects such as the shortness of life, tranquillity of mind, anger, mercy, happiness, and grief at the loss of a loved one. Seneca's accessible, aphoristic style makes his writing especially attractive as an introduction to Stoic philosophy, and belies its reputation for austerity and dogmatism. This edition combines a clear and modern translation with an introduction to Seneca's life and philosophical interests, and helpful notes. ABOUT THE SERIES: For over 100 years Oxford World's Classics has made available the widest range of literature from around the globe. Each affordable volume reflects Oxford's commitment to scholarship, providing the most accurate text plus a wealth of other valuable features, including expert introductions by leading authorities, helpful notes to clarify the text, up-to-date bibliographies for further study, and much more.
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4.6
10 reviews
Jannik Lindquist
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December 8, 2015
One of the best modern translations available into English of writings by Seneca. The introduction is competent but slightly patronising towards Seneca. Great selection of texts. Not many editions of Seneca's writings include content from the much underrated work "Natural questions". Sadly, only the chapter-numbers of Seneca's texts are preserved in this translation - not the section-numbers. This is probably good for readability but not for reference. Even so, this edition is highly recommended
3 people found this review helpful
A Google user
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January 5, 2014
You could study Western Philosophy at the highest level and never come across Seneca other than as a footnote to Nero's tyranny. This is because Stoicism isn't really considered Philosophy at all in this era. It was very popular and endured for many centuries but provided few insights in its history. So perhaps we should consider this work as not Philosophy as such but Wisdom on how to manage our emotions, desires and needs. However I did find at times Seneca seems to berate those who he seeks to console.
علي محمد مهد لي
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June 29, 2024
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About the author
John Davie has translated all of Euripides' plays for Penguin Classics.
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