Seneca Epistles 47

What is the author's attitude towards slaves?

The author regards slaves not merely as property, but as human beings, comrades, unpretentious friends, and even fellow slaves under the caprices of Fortune.

What does the author criticize about the way some people view dining with slaves?

The author criticizes the view that dining with slaves is degrading, suggesting that this notion stems from a pompous etiquette rather than genuine social or moral principles.

How does the author describe the behavior of a master during dinner?

The master is described as eating excessively, with greed, to the point of discomfort and difficulty, while his slaves stand by in enforced silence.

What restrictions are placed on slaves during their master's dinner according to the passage?

Slaves are not allowed to speak, and even involuntary sounds like a cough, sneeze, or hiccup can result in punishment with the rod or lash.

What is the author's view on the social status between slaves and free men?

The author believes that Fortune does not discriminate between slaves and free men, implying that social status is a result of chance rather than inherent superiority.

What does the author imply about the consequences of the master's overindulgence?

The author implies that the master's overindulgence leads to discomfort and a struggle to digest the excess food, highlighting the senselessness of such gluttony.

What can be inferred about the author's beliefs regarding humanity and social equality?

It can be inferred that the author advocates for humane treatment of all individuals regardless of their social status and recognizes the shared humanity of slaves and free men.

What is the author's perspective on the silence enforced upon slaves during meals?

The author finds the strict silence enforced upon slaves to be cruel and unreasonable, as it punishes even natural, involuntary human sounds.

How does this passage reflect the author's philosophical stance on fortune and status?

The passage reflects the author's stance that fortune is arbitrary and that social status does not determine a person's value or humanity.

What consequence does the author suggest arises from the master's refusal to allow slaves to speak?

The author suggests that such silence imposed on the slaves in the master's presence leads them to talk about the master behind his back, potentially in a negative way.

How does the author contrast the slaves of 'former days' with contemporary slaves?

The author contrasts them by stating that slaves in the past, who were allowed to converse with their master, were more loyal and would risk their lives for him, maintaining silence under torture.

hat is the implication of slaves being 'ready to bare their necks for their master'?

This implies a sense of loyalty and a strong bond between slaves and their master, suggesting that respectful treatment can inspire deep devotion.

What does the author say about the cause of enmity between slaves and their master?

The author asserts that slaves do not become enemies through their own nature or when they are acquired; it is the master's treatment of them that turns them into enemies.

hat does the phrase "As many enemies as you have slaves" signify according to the author?

The phrase signifies that mistreatment of slaves by their master creates animosity, effectively turning each slave into a potential enemy.

What does the author suggest about the way slaves were involved in feasts compared to how they were treated during torture?

The author suggests that in the past, slaves who were included and allowed to speak at feasts remained loyal and silent during torture, indicating that their treatment in social settings correlated with their fidelity in adversarial ones.

How does the author's account reflect on the issue of humanity and respect in relationships between masters and slaves?

The author's account reflects the idea that humanity and respect in the relationship between masters and slaves are essential for fostering loyalty and reducing enmity.

What might the author recommend to a master concerning the treatment of his slaves?

The author would likely recommend that a master treat his slaves with respect and humanity, allowing them the dignity of conversation and recognizing their loyalty, to prevent creating unnecessary hostility.

Based on this passage, what might the author believe about the power dynamics in Roman society?

The author may believe that power dynamics in Roman society are flawed and that the authoritative approach of masters over slaves can backfire, leading to resentment and potential rebellion.

What are some of the duties slaves are expected to perform at their master's banquet?

Slaves are tasked with cleaning up vomit, collecting leftovers, expertly carving game birds, serving wine, and even appraising guests to determine future invitations.

How does the author describe the slave who carves game birds?

The author describes the slave as hapless, suggesting that his life is reduced to the singular purpose of cutting food correctly, which is seen as a pitiable existence.

What does the author imply about the slave who teaches the art of carving?

The author implies that the slave who teaches the art of carving for pleasure might be even more unhappy than the one who learns it out of necessity.

How are the wine-serving slaves described in their appearance and duties?

Wine-serving slaves are described as being dressed like women and forced to maintain a youthful appearance by removing facial hair. They also must stay awake at night to cater to their master's needs, whether those be related to drunkenness or lust.

What does the author say about the slave responsible for valuing the guests?

The author mentions that this slave has to continuously observe the guests to determine who will be re-invited based on their flattery or immodesty in appetite or speech.

hat skill set is required of the slaves who are purveyors of food?

These slaves must have a delicate skill in noting their master's tastes, knowing what flavors will entice them, and what food combinations will appeal to them on a particular day.

What irony does the author point out about the master's attitude towards dining with slaves?

The author highlights the irony that despite slaves playing such integral roles in the enjoyment and service of the banquet, the master considers it beneath his dignity to dine with them.

What does the author seem to criticize about the master's perspective on the dignity of dining with slaves?

The author criticizes the master's perspective as hypocritical and inhumane, indicating a disdain for the mistreatment and objectification of slaves who are crucial to the master's comfort and pleasure.

hat is the author's overall tone when describing the treatment of slaves at the banquet?

The author's tone is one of disdain and moral outrage towards the cruel and inhumane treatment of slaves, who are seen as being treated as mere beasts of burden rather than human beings.

What event does the author describe involving Callistus and his former master?

The author describes an ironic reversal where Callistus, once a slave put up for sale, now stands in a position of power, capable of denying his former master entry into his house.

What does the author suggest about the change in Callistus's circumstances?

The author suggests that Callistus has risen in status and wealth, becoming powerful enough to 'pay off' his former master in an act of poetic justice or irony.

How does the author use the example of Callistus to comment on the nature of slavery and freedom?

The author uses Callistus's example to illustrate that the roles of master and slave are not fixed and that fortune can reverse these roles, highlighting the arbitrary nature of social status.

What point does the author make by mentioning the "For Sale" ticket that was once attached to Callistus?

By mentioning the "For Sale" ticket, the author emphasizes the commodification of human beings and the potential for their value and social standing to change dramatically.

What historical event is referred to, and what consequence did it have on individuals of high birth?

The author refers to the massacres in Marius's day, during which individuals of noble birth were reduced to humble positions like shepherds or caretakers, illustrating the fickleness of fortune.

What caution does the author offer to those who might despise their slaves?

The author cautions against contempt for slaves, warning that the despiser might one day share the same lowly status due to the whims of fortune.

What commonality does the author remind us that all humans, slaves, and masters alike, share?

The author reminds us that everyone, slaves and masters, come from the same origin, enjoy the same natural world, and share the fundamental human experiences of breathing, living, and dying.

What philosophical point about equality is the author making in this passage?

The author is making the point that all humans are fundamentally equal, and any distinctions of social status are temporary and subject to change.

How does the author suggest we should view our slaves, according to this passage?

The author suggests that we should view slaves as equals, as individuals who are fundamentally no different from ourselves and who could have been, or could become, free-born.

What does the author imply about the certainty of one's social status?

The author implies that social status is uncertain and can change due to external events or shifts in fortune, and thus should not be a basis for arrogance or cruelty.

What is the central piece of advice the author gives regarding the treatment of inferiors?

Treat your inferiors as you would be treated by your betters.

How does the author counsel one to consider their own power over slaves?

The author suggests reflecting on the fact that just as one has power over their slaves, their master has equal power over them.

What point does the author make about the potential for anyone to become a slave?

The author notes that regardless of one's current status, anyone could potentially become a slave, citing examples of historical figures who faced such a fate.

What does the author say about his recommendation for affable association with slaves?

The author acknowledges that some may find the idea debasing or disgraceful, but he advocates for treating slaves as companions and equals.

How does the author respond to the anticipated objections from the 'exquisites'?

The author points out the hypocrisy of the critics who, despite their objections, are seen acting subserviently towards the slaves of others.

What historical customs does the author refer to that indicate a more respectful relationship between masters and slaves?

The author refers to customs such as calling the master "father of the household," slaves "members of the household," and the establishment of holidays where masters and slaves would dine togethe

What analogy does the author use to describe the relationship between a master and his slaves within the household?

The author likens a household to a miniature commonwealth, where slaves could attain honors and even pronounce judgment.

What were the intended effects of the customs established by the ancestors regarding slaves, according to the author?

These customs were intended to remove feelings of envy from masters and reduce humiliation among slaves, fostering a sense of dignity and respect within the household.

How does the author view the relationship between masters and slaves in the context of human dignity?

The author views the relationship as one that should be grounded in mutual respect and dignity, contrasting sharply with the prevailing attitudes of Roman society at the time.

What historical figures does the author mention as examples of those who became slaves, and why?

The author mentions Hecuba, Croesus, the mother of Darius, Plato, and Diogenes to illustrate that enslavement can happen to anyone, regardless of their prior status or achievements.

Is the author suggesting that all slaves should be seated at the master's table?

No, the author is not suggesting that all slaves should be invited to the master's table any more than all free men should be.

How does the author propose to evaluate which slaves might be invited to the table?

The author proposes evaluating slaves based on their character rather than their duties or social status.

What is the author's perspective on the duties performed by slaves like the muleteer or the herdsman?

The author believes that a person's duties are assigned by accident and are not an indication of their character or worth.

What does the author suggest is the potential benefit of inviting slaves to one's table?

Inviting slaves to the table can help elevate them by exposing them to more refined company, which may help to improve any slavish qualities brought about by their lower status and associations.

What advice does the author give Lucilius about finding friends?

The author advises Lucilius to look for friends not only in public places like the forum or Senate-house but also within his own home among his slaves.

hat does the author mean by "good material often stands idle for want of an artist"?

This metaphor suggests that there is potential or talent that goes unused because no one has taken the time to nurture or develop it.

How does the author compare the act of valuing a man by his external attributes to purchasing a horse?

The author compares those who judge a man by his rank or clothing to a foolish person who judges a horse by its saddle and bridle rather than its intrinsic qualities.

What lesson is the author trying to impart about judging and valuing others?

The author is advocating for a more substantive evaluation of people based on their character and intrinsic qualities rather than their social status, occupation, or external appearances.

What is the author's stance on the notion of slavery?

The author argues that slavery goes beyond the physical condition; even those who are nominally free can be slaves to their desires, fears, or societal pressures.

ow does the author describe the soul of a slave?

The author suggests that a slave may have the soul of a freeman, implying that the essence or character of a person is not defined by their social status or physical circumstances.

What examples does the author provide of metaphorical slavery?

The author provides examples of individuals from various social strata who are enslaved by their passions or habits, such as a consul enslaved by a manipulative woman or a rich man dominated by a maid.

What does the author suggest about self-imposed servitude?

The author decries self-imposed servitude as the most disgraceful form of slavery because it is chosen rather than forced upon an individual.

What is the author's advice regarding how one should act towards slaves?

The author advises treating slaves affably and respectfully, seeking their respect rather than fear, indicating that masters should act in a way that is worthy of respect.

What concern does the author address regarding the perception of his advice?

The author acknowledges that some may criticize his stance, fearing it undermines the traditional power dynamic between master and slave by promoting too much familiarity.

What is the author's view on respect in the context of the master-slave relationship?

The author equates respect with love, suggesting that true respect comes from a place of affection and voluntary esteem, not from fear.

What analogy does the author use to describe the appropriate way to correct slaves?

The author suggests that verbal reprimand is sufficient for correction, much like humans communicate, rather than physical punishment, which is appropriate only for "dumb animals."

What underlying message is the author conveying about the dynamics of power and respect?

The underlying message is that power should be exercised with humanity and compassion, promoting a relationship based on mutual respect rather than fear, which aligns with the author's broader philosophy on human dignity and ethical leadership.

What is the main idea expressed about the nature of anger in this passage?

The passage suggests that anger often stems not from actual harm but from the frustrations of not having one's whims met. Luxury and comfort can make individuals more susceptible to anger over trivial matters, behaving like kings who use perceived slights as pretexts to exercise their power unjustly.

How does the author describe the behavior of kings when they become angry?

Kings are described as forgetting their own strength and others' weaknesses, becoming excessively angry over no real injury, as their high position already shields them from such harms. This anger is not based on genuine grievance but rather is an excuse to exert their will and cause harm to others.

What does the author imply about individuals who frequently change their opinions?

The author implies that bad character is associated with fickleness and inconsistency, often shifting not towards improvement but merely to something different. In contrast, good character is associated with forming one's own judgments and steadfastly adhering to them.

Why does the author choose to end the letter without further exhortation?

The author ends the letter without further encouragement because he believes the recipient of the letter (presumably Lucilius) already possesses good character and thus does not require additional urging to do what is right.

What does the passage say about the relationship between character and judgment?

The passage indicates that a mark of good character is the ability to form independent judgments and stick to them, suggesting that integrity and self-reliance in thought are important virtues.