Stoicism In Ancient Rome

In the first and second centuries of Ancient Rome a wave of Stoicism rose to leave a lasting impact, especially through the ideas of Epictetus and Seneca. The two main questions Stoics aimed to answer were; how can one lead a happy and fulfilling life, and how can one be a better human being? These were both believed to be achieved through internal control. Since we are human, we are unable to see what the logos have planned for us, so to have internal control is the most practical and applicable approach to be prepared. The inner realm was regarded to be free, whereas the outer realm was not. Virtue could only be achieved through the cultivation of the self and inner work. Things were believed to be private rather than public, resulting in the ideology that a good character is for one’s own benefit and not for others to see. …show more content…
The logos, or Gods, were believed to have ultimate control, and the universe was planned in a specific way that citizens were to abide by. By following the intentions of nature, and seeking calmnesss in the midst of activity, people can be detached and yearn for less desires, ultimately leading to a more virtuous life. Happiness in the Stoic life was not something in a person’s control, but could only be achieved through living realistically and how nature intended. Emotions, desires, and attachments were not considered to be excess, and distracting from reality. They were believed to cause people to long for what they didn’t have, deny/fear death, and waste the most precious resource, time. Overall, to live practically, logically, and calmly were essential to the Stoic way of life and to overcome the infamous