The first clear and faithful guide to the timeless, practical teachings of the Stoic philosopher Seneca. Stoicism, the most influential philosophy of the Roman Empire, offers refreshingly modern ways to strengthen our inner character in the face of an unpredictable world. Widely recognized as the most talented and humane writer of the Stoic tradition, Seneca teaches us to live with freedom and purpose. His most enduring work, over a hundred “Letters from a Stoic” written to a close friend, explains how to handle adversity; overcome grief, anxiety, and anger; transform setbacks into opportunities for growth; and recognize the true nature of friendship. In Breakfast with Seneca, philosopher David Fideler mines Seneca’s classic works in a series of focused chapters, clearly explaining Seneca’s ideas without oversimplifying them. Best enjoyed as a daily ritual, like an energizing cup of coffee, Seneca’s wisdom provides us with a steady stream of time-tested advice about the human condition—which, as it turns out, hasn’t changed much over the past two thousand years. Reviews: You'll feel as if you're joining David Fideler to breakfast with Seneca while discussing his philosophical letters. It's a great introduction to both Seneca and Stoicism and will even help those already familiar with these writings to gain more benefit from them.—Donald Robertson, author of How to Think Like a Roman Emperor This book is the perfect antidote to the commercialism and superficial values of modern times. Although Seneca was living two thousand years ago, he speaks directly to us today. David Fideler breaks Seneca's teachings down into easily comprehensible chunks and is concerned throughout to stress the practical, therapeutic aspects: how to deal with grief; how to be in the present moment; how to live a good life whatever the circumstances. He channels Seneca without distortion and makes him accessible to the twenty-first-century reader.—Robin Waterfield, translator of Marcus Aurelius and Epictetus About the Author: David Fideler is a writer, philosopher, and the editor of the Stoic Insights website. Born in the United States, he currently lives in Sarajevo with his wife and son, where he still enjoys his breakfasts with Seneca. |