On the Happy Life - The Complete Dialogues

By: Seneca

Narrated by: Ric Jerrom

In his dialogues, the Stoic philosopher Seneca outlines his thoughts on how to live in a troubled world. Tutor to the young emperor Nero, Seneca wrote practical philosophical exercises that draw upon contemporary Roman life and illuminate the intellectual concerns of the day. The dialogues also have much to say to the modern listener, as they range widely across subjects such as the shortness of life, tranquility of mind, anger, mercy, happiness, and grief at the loss of a loved one. Seneca's accessible, aphoristic style makes his writing especially attractive as an introduction to Stoic philosophy, and belies its reputation for austerity and dogmatism.

Download the accompanying reference guide.Public Domain (P)2021 Naxos Audiobooks

Fantastic Content, Uneven Performance

Seneca has been a pleasure to listen to, and the audiobook has a clearly labelled structure. All great as can be expected from Naxos.

The speaker has a clear and compelling voice, but he reads in a spiteful, sneering inflection. This tone is very often in stark contrast to Seneca’s content - his call to emotional evenness and calls to serenity. You’ll notice it especially in the three books written against the expression of anger. It’s an odd stylistic choice by the reader, you can’t help but notice the dissonance.