Seneca Virtues

“Virtue is a thing that must be learned” (Seneca). One may ask how can one achieve virtue or how can one be taught to be virtuous. Once virtue is learned how will it affect one’s life. According to Seneca we can achieve virtue through study. In his work “On Liberal and vocational studies” Seneca has an issue with liberal studies. He has no respect for it because the end goal of it, for many students is to make money. Seneca advocates for a different type of study involving a deeper level of thinking and learning. In “Liberal Studies and Education” by Seneca, the path to virtue is through the study of wisdom. The effects of virtue are illustrated through the characteristics of Temperance, Kindliness, and patience.

One achieves virtue when

one takes what is learned from liberal studies using this information and applying it in an attempt to better oneself.

According to Seneca, “We ourselves encounter storms of the spirit, which toss us daily, and our depravity us into all the ills which troubled Ulysses… by example of Ulysses, how I am to love my country, my wife… even after suffering shipwreck, I am to sail towards these ends, honorable as they are” (Seneca). Seneca believes that one shouldn’t merely read the story of Ulysses and admire it for how beautifully written it is, instead one should grasp what his story is teaching and use this in life. Ulysses story shows how to handle adversity and the obstacles we face in tough times through bravery and perseverance. Seneca states, “You, sir, are teaching me how the treble and the bass are in accord with one another… though the strings produce different notes, the result is a harmony; rather bring my

soul into harmony with itself and let not my purpose be out of tune” (Seneca). This quote shows what one should be focusing on while learning and playing music. Using music as a tool to learn how to soothe the soul and not fall to chaos during stressful situations. Seneca says, “what good is there for me in knowing how to parcel out a piece of land, if I know not how to share it with my brother?” (Seneca). What Seneca is trying to convey here is that he may know how to parcel out a piece of land, this has no value if one plans on keeping it to oneself. One must learn how to think past the technical side of learning a craft and open their mind to the possibilities to better ones life and the lives of those around them.
The effects of virtue are also significant. One effect of becoming virtuous is the illustration of temperance. Seneca explains that, “temperance controls our desires” (Seneca). In life one desires many things some good some bad. An example of this is when one is in a relationship but starts to desire the attention and connection of another person. Fighting this temptation shows ones virtuous nature. Seneca further explains that, “temperance knows that the best measure of the appetites is not what you want to take, but what you ought to take” (Seneca). Knowing the difference between wants and needs is huge. If one can learn to only take what is needed and what they want then everyone can be satisfied. Being virtuous in this way can serve one well for the rest of there days.
Another effect of virtue is the illustration of kindliness.

Seneca writes, “kindliness forbids you to be over-bearing towards your associates, it forbids you to be grasping” (Seneca). One who is warm- hearted has an easier time dealing with people. Kindliness allows one to treat others as one would want to be treated. Kindliness serves one greatly in a new surrounding or environment. Seneca also states “In words and deeds shows itself gentle and courteous to all men” (Seneca). Being kind through our words can help one build strong and happy relationships. Being kind through deeds shows that one is willing to help those in need and not expect anything from such deeds. Kindliness is a great virtue to have because it serves as a gateway to better human interaction and

connection.
Perhaps the most important effect of virtue is illustrated through loyalty. Seneca states “loyalty is the holiest good in the human heart” (Seneca 27). One who posses this virtue shows great strength and respect for others. The ability to be loyal shows that one cares enough about someone or something to remain dedicated to them or it. Seneca writes “loyalty cries: “burn me, slay me, kill me! I shall not betray my trust” (Seneca 27). Loyalty shows that one can be trusted with another’s life. That person will know that no matter the situation trust will not be broken. Seneca finishes by saying “the more urgently torture shall seek to find my secret, the deeper in my heart will I bury it!” (Seneca 27). Loyalty is valuable in all relationships, romantic, family, and friend. Having this virtue sets one on a path being a better overall person.
Thus, Seneca effectively provides us with an answer to why he is not fond of liberal studies. Through the study of wisdom is the only way one can truly achieve virtue. Seneca also illustrates the effects of being a virtuous person. By doing so, Seneca successfully gives one a guide on how to get a better sense of self -purpose and how to better one’s overall life.