Happiness according to Seneca

Abstract

The main objective of this paper is the understanding of happiness as the result of virtuous practices, as suggested by Seneca. Here are arranged thoughts of four works by the Roman philosopher. The first one appears in On clemency, written with the purpose of making the emperor Nero a good emperor. The true blessedness should provide a happy life for many. In this way, the happiness of a governor only exists from the happiness of the people. The second idea appears in On anger, where the objective is to avoid disappointment by ataraxia - conformity with nature. Here, happiness is the lowering of expectations and the preparing for adversity. The third conception of happiness appears in Of consolation: To Helvia, written in exile, to remind his mother of all the misfortunes they have ever had, whereas this constant misfortune would have a positive point: hardening those whom it relentlessly pursues. Finally, the advice is to keep away from the crowds and surrender oneself to philosophy, that is, practical philosophy, and strive for balance, avoiding the frivolous pleasures, denying voluptuousness and exalting the moral typical of Roman Stoicism.