So, it’s not about defeating those who offend us; it’s about being undefeatable by

these people, which lies within our power, according to the Stoics. The question
is, of course, how can we pull this off? This video focuses on Seneca’s Stoicism,
particularly regarding becoming undefeatable. When comparing the known Stoic
philosophers from antiquity, the emperor Marcus Aurelius is probably the most
popular. His Meditations are accessible and resonate with the reader, as they show
an insight into his thoughts and struggles. His reflective nature, combined with
being an emperor, creates a strong and clear archetype, which is also the case with
Epictetus, who was a freed slave. In contrast, Seneca, though a significant Stoic
figure, presents a more complex archetype. He was a statesman, philosopher, and
dramatist. His varied roles contributed to different areas, such as literature,
philosophy, and politics. Even though he had a prominent place in the Roman
hierarchy, his power didn’t reach the heights of Marcus Aurelius. However, he came
close, as his authority over the empire was profound during Nero’s first years of
reign. Lucius Annaeus Seneca, also known as Seneca the Younger, was born in
Córdoba, present-day Spain. His father, Seneca the Elder, was a famous writer and
teacher of rhetoric, and his mother, Helvia, came from a prominent family. Seneca’s
education was in rhetoric, but philosophy truly grasped his interest. After a
successful career in Rome, Emperor Claudius banned Seneca from Rome to Corsica due
to accusations of adultery, where he remained for eight years and where he wrote
his famous consolation to his mother.