On master and slave
47:17
Book Subtitle: Seneca's timeless letters of advice and wisdom.
Book Description: Full of insight and wisdom, Seneca's letters are a Stoic treasure. They've influenced famous philosophers, leaders, and students over the centuries. Each letter can be read on its own. By reading this volume you'll absorb the thoughts of a thoughtful Stoic aimed at living well.
17. “He is a slave.” His soul, however, may be that of a freeman. “He is a slave.” But shall that stand in his way?
Show me a man who is not a slave; one is a slave to lust, another to greed, another to ambition, and all men are slaves to fear.
I will name you an ex-consul who is slave to an old hag, a millionaire who is slave to a serving-maid; I will show you youths of the noblest birth in serfdom to pantomime players!
No servitude is more disgraceful than that which is self-imposed.
You should therefore not be deterred by these finicky persons from showing yourself to your slaves as an affable person and not proudly superior to them; they ought to respect you rather than fear you.
Book: Moral Letters Vol I
Subtitle: Seneca's timeless letters of advice and wisdom.
Author: Seneca
Chapter: On master and slave
Location: Chapter 47, Section 17
Content:
17. “He is a slave.” His soul, however, may be that of a freeman. “He is a slave.” But shall that stand in his way?
Show me a man who is not a slave; one is a slave to lust, another to greed, another to ambition, and all men are slaves to fear.
I will name you an ex-consul who is slave to an old hag, a millionaire who is slave to a serving-maid; I will show you youths of the noblest birth in serfdom to pantomime players!
No servitude is more disgraceful than that which is self-imposed.
You should therefore not be deterred by these finicky persons from showing yourself to your slaves as an affable person and not proudly superior to them; they ought to respect you rather than fear you.