2. Seneca would assess the benefactor’s attitude and action in accordance to his intention. Perhaps, it can be inferred that the giver was not “inclined to do what he does from the prompting of his own will,” as he, the well-wisher, explained that he is giving so charities “off [his] back.” For this reason, the benefactor’s money wouldn’t be deemed ‘generous,’ nor a ‘benefit’ because to Seneca, “the spirit of the action,” is of greater importance than all else. Evidence from the benefactor’s words suggests that he is merely making an offering to his “pride,” for he is trying to “please,” by “[looking] good in the community.” It is probable that the ‘benefits’ were “carelessly dropped,” as he further claims that the “money is nothing to [him].”
