13/3/07 - Classical Literature - Seneca: Thyestes

Seneca's tragedies are about evil - what it is and what its consequences are.

Atreus represented as uncontrollably angry. "O angry Atreus", 199. The second act is a lesson in this anger.

Logos - reasoning
Pathos - passion/emotions

Anger is the worst emotions according to Stoic philosophy and is defined as a desire for revenge. Yet Atreus also desires power and control over all things (Act 2, Scene 1). Atreus is the anti-philosopher, whereas the true philosopher is someone free from worldly passions and desires, someone in complete control of himself. Atreus is a slave to his emotions.

The following ode illustrates true and wrong kingship, in relation to philosophy. The true king is the philosopher who is at peace with himself, and the wrong king is one governed by power, war and wealth.