• Book cover of ‘Letters from a Stoic’ by Lucius Annaeus Seneca, translated by Robin Campbell. The design is minimalistic, featuring a stone bust of Seneca centered against a plain background. Below the sculpture is the classic black‑and‑white style, with orange Penguin Classics brand and the Penguin logo, followed by the book title and author information in simple, clean typography. ISBN‑13: 9780140442106.
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Letters from a Stoic | Lucius Annaeus Seneca

Letters from a Stoic | Lucius Annaeus Seneca

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Letters from a Stoic

By Lucius Annaeus Seneca | Penguin Classics Edition

🏛️ THE ESSENTIAL STOIC TEXT

A Penguin Classics reprint featuring authoritative translations and scholarly notes.

The Wisdom of the Self-Possessed Mind

"It is philosophy that has the duty of protecting us... without it no one can lead a life free of fear or worry."

For several years of his turbulent life, Seneca was the guiding hand of the Roman Empire, serving as tutor and advisor to the Emperor Nero. His inspired reasoning was derived mainly from the Stoic principles, which had been developed centuries earlier in Athens. In this selection of letters, Seneca upholds the austere ethical ideals of Stoicism—the wisdom of the self-possessed person immune to overmastering emotions and life’s setbacks.

Yet, Seneca's interpretation is far from cold or detached. He values friendship, champions the courage of ordinary men, and boldly criticizes the harsh treatment of slaves and the cruelties of the gladiatorial arena. The humanity and wit revealed in these letters serve as a moving and inspiring declaration of the dignity of the individual mind. This Penguin Classics edition ensures that the modern reader can access these timeless lessons on resilience and virtue with clarity and context.

About the Author

Lucius Annaeus Seneca (c. 4 BC – AD 65), known as Seneca the Younger, was a Roman Stoic philosopher, statesman, and dramatist of the Silver Age of Latin literature. Born in Cordoba, Spain, he rose to prominence in Rome, eventually becoming the tutor and chief advisor to the Emperor Nero. His works remain some of the most important primary sources for understanding Stoic philosophy.

Who Readers Will Love This

  • Philosophy Students: A foundational text for understanding the practical application of Roman Stoicism.
  • Seekers of Resilience: Essential reading for anyone looking to build mental fortitude and emotional regulation in a chaotic world.
  • History Enthusiasts: Offers a direct window into the moral and social landscape of the Roman Empire under Nero.

Product Information

ISBN-13: 9780140442106
Publisher: Penguin Classics
Format: Paperback (Reprint)
Publication Date: 1969-07-30
Subject: Philosophy / Stoicism / Ancient History

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