The Death of Seneca Essay

Stoicism is having control of one's emotions. Stoics have all been throughout history. A stoic makes a great leader because even in tough personal times they can stay professional. A great Stoic was Seneca. He was a adviser and friend of the Roman Emperor, Nero. Other than being an adviser he was a great diplomat and debater. Stoicism is the ability to endure pain and hardship without showing emotion; Seneca at his death was a perfect example of a stoic. 

     One can see his stoicism through the story of his death. There are many quotes that can depict his stoicism at his death bed. "Seneca, quite unmoved, asked for tablets on which to inscribe his will, and, on the centurion's refusal, turned to his friends, protesting that as he was forbidden to requite them, he bequeathed to them the only, but still the noblest possession yet remaining to him, the pattern of his life, which, if they remembered, they would win a name for moral worth and steadfast friendship." (Tacitus) This quote shows him being unmoved when he is dieing. Even when everyone around him was sad he was dieing he sat there and showed no emotion. He was there and just wanted to write down  his will. 

     This next quote shows how he had no fear. Even in the face of a great trouble he showed no fear and was unmoved. “Upon this the tribune asserted that he saw no signs of fear, and perceived no sadness in his words or in his looks.”(Tacitus) Also it shows how he was not sad. He didn't cry or show any emotion of sadness. He is very strong with his emotions. He controlled his emotions and was able to over come the sadness. 

     The last quote that really shows his stoicism is one of the best. “Seneca, as his aged frame, attenuated by frugal diet, allowed the blood to escape but slowly, severed also the veins of his legs and knees.”(Tacitus) This quote is very good example of him being a stoic. It describes as he lies there bleeding to death and he doesn't seem to care. He has given up on all his emotions and life. He just sits there and lets himself bleed out with out screaming, crying, or asking for help. 

     In conclusion, stoicism is the ability to endure pain and hardship without showing emotion; Seneca at his death was a perfect example of a stoic. Seneca was and still is a perfect example of a stoic. He was able to take a lot of pain as he was at his own death bed. Even when he was there he showed no emotions when he was bleeding out. He also stayed professional and was a great advisor even through to his death. This is why Seneca is a perfect example of a stoic in our ancient history.  

Cited:

Tacitus. "Ancient History Sourcebook: Tacitus: The Death of Seneca." FORDHAM.EDU. Web. 06 Apr. 2011. <http://www.fordham.edu/halsall/ancient/tacitus-ann15a.html>.