Seneca Books
Lucius Annaeus Seneca, or, as he is better known, Seneca the Younger, was a Roman philosopher and statesman during the first century AD. Seneca was part of the philosophical school of Stoicism. He wrote a broad range of works, including essays, letters, tragedies, a biography of his father and even a Menippean satire.
What's On the Shortness of Life about?
On the Shortness of Life (49 AD) is an essay on how to appreciate life – and how to use it. These blinks show you what is truly valuable in this world and how to avoid getting distracted by unimportant matters. They’ll show you where genuine happiness comes from and why working hard will not lead to a tranquil and satisfied mind.
Who should read On the Shortness of Life?
- Workaholics who never have any time for anything
- Thinkers trying to decide what it means to live a good life
- Anyone who wants to be inspired to learn and read more
What's Letters from a Stoic about?
Written around 65 CE and addressed to a Roman official stationed in Sicily by the name of Lucilius, Seneca’s Letters from a Stoic are an exploration of the good life. Drawing on the rich tradition of stoic philosophical thought, Seneca advocates simple living in harmony with nature, avoidance of temptations and vice and the continuous honing of the mind through the study of philosophy. That, Seneca argued, was the path to true happiness.
Who should read Letters from a Stoic?
- History buffs with a love of all things Roman
- Philosophically inclined readers interested in the good life
- Anyone who’s ever wondered how to conquer their fears