The Roman Stoics: Self, Responsibility, and Affection - Hardcover

Reydams-Schils, Gretchen

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0226308375 ISBN 13: 9780226308371

Publisher: University of Chicago Press, 2005

Synopsis

Roman Stoic thinkers in the imperial period adapted Greek doctrine to create a model of the self that served to connect philosophical ideals with traditional societal values. The Roman Stoics-the most prominent being Marcus Aurelius-engaged in rigorous self-examination that enabled them to integrate philosophy into the practice of living. Gretchen Reydams-Schils's innovative new book shows how these Romans applied their distinct brand of social ethics to everyday relations and responsibilities.

The Roman Stoics reexamines the philosophical basis that instructed social practice in friendship, marriage, parenting, and community. From this analysis emerge Stoics who were neither cold nor detached, as the stereotype has it, but all too aware of their human weaknesses. In a valuable contribution to current discussions in the humanities on identity, autonomy, and altruism, Reydams-Schils ultimately conveys the wisdom of Stoics to the citizens of modern society.

About this title

From the Inside Flap:

Roman Stoic thinkers in the imperial period adapted Greek doctrine to create a model of the self that served to connect philosophical ideals with traditional societal values. Seneca, Musonius Rufus, Epictetus, Hierocles, and Marcus Aurelius all engaged in rigorous self-examination that enabled them to integrate philosophy into the practice of living. Gretchen Reydams-Schils's innovative new book shows how these thinkers applied their distinct brand of social ethics to everyday relations and responsibilities.
The Roman Stoics reexamines the philosophical basis that instructed social practice in friendship, marriage, parenting, and community. From this analysis emerge Stoics who were neither cold nor detached, as the stereotype has it, but all too aware of their human weaknesses. In a valuable contribution to current discussions in the humanities on identity, autonomy, and altruism, Reydams-Schils ultimately conveys the wisdom the Stoics have to bestow upon citizens of modern society.

About the Author:

Gretchen Reydams-Schils is associate professor in the Program of Liberal Studies at the University of Notre Dame. She is the author of An Anthology of Snakebites: On Women, Love and Philosophy.

About this edition

• Publisher: University of Chicago Press
• Publication date: 2005
• ISBN 10: 0226308375
• ISBN 13: 9780226308371
• Binding: Hardcover
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 224