Der Begriff natura und seine ethische Relevanz in Senecas Prosaschriften

The foremost principle of the Stoic ethical doctrine is to live in accordance with nature. This study undertakes a fresh examination of the definition of human nature found in Seneca’s prose writings, particularly the “Moral Letters”. By means of a precise textual analysis, the author deals with the question to what extent, besides the holistic nature of humans, the individual nature is also relevant to moral decisions. In a section on the systematic principles she first determines Seneca’s concept of nature in the light of philosophical tradition. She then examines the meaning of human nature for self-education and the education of others. Finally, the author describes what function the espistolary form could have for Senecan philosophy.