Occasional reflections on the wisdom of Ancient Greek and Roman philosophers. More at https://massimopigliucci.com. Please consider supporting Stoic Meditations. (cover art by Marek Škrabák; original music by Ian Jolin-Rasmussen, www.jolinras.info). Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/stoicmeditations/support
https://massimopigliucci.wordpress.com
Clemency helps the innocent and the virtuous
Seneca makes an argument in favor of a broad conception of clemency, not just on behalf of the guilty, but of the innocent and the virtuous. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/stoicmeditations/support
Is Nero going to "forget" his character?
Seneca flatters Nero at the same time as he issues veiled threats to the new emperor, in case he steers from the right path. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/stoicmeditations/support
Seneca offers himself as a mirror for Nero's soul
We begin the study of the controversial On Clemency, through which Seneca tried to steer Nero's course for the good of the Roman people. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/stoicmeditations/support
Overcome your fear of death and you will be free and powerful
Epictetus and Seneca agree: our own death is the ultimate test of our character, and philosophy is a long journey to prepare us for it. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/stoicmeditations/support
What is and is not up to us
'What then, if I fall ill?' You shall bear illness well. 'Who shall tend me?' God, and your friends. 'I shall lie on a hard bed.' But you can do it like a man. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/stoicmeditations/support
Consider how much control you have, and what follows from that
When you think about it, it turns out that we have far less control over things and people than we think, and therefore far less blame. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/stoicmeditations/support
You can get better immediately, it's up to you
Epictetus says that our moral improvement is not like the Olympic Games: when we fail, we can resume immediately, not having to wait four years. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/stoicmeditations/support
If you are in Gyara, live as one who is in Gyara
Epictetus advises us to live the life we have, in the place we are, rather than indulge in regret for what we may have lost. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/stoicmeditations/support
How to practice and what to practice
Epictetus gives us a very practical pointer about how to incorporate Stoic precepts in our lives. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/stoicmeditations/support
Do not wish for figs in winter
There is a proper time for everything, including enjoying your loved ones. Keep it in mind, before they're gone. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/stoicmeditations/support