Practical Theology

Practical Theology

Tranquillity of the Soul in Seneca’s Wisdom

Document Type : Research Paper

Author
Associate Professor, Department of Philosophy, Faculty of Moral Philosophy, University of Isfahan, Isfahan, Iran
Abstract
This inquiry seeks a detailed exploration of the concept of "Tranquillity of the Soul" (Tranquillitas Animi) within the intellectual framework of Lucius Annaeus Seneca, the first-century Stoic sage. The central question revolves around how Seneca established a practical nexus between his tumultuous life in the imperial court and the transcendent doctrines of the Stoa. The findings of this research demonstrate that for Seneca, tranquillity is not a static state, but rather the fruit of "rational asceticism" (askēsis) founded upon four thematic pillars: 1) existential submission to the necessity of nature; 2) the dialectic of regulating negative emotions; 3) the ontology of death-awareness; and 4) selective detachment and spiritual austerity. Drawing upon his seminal works, this study shows that Senecan tranquillity is mediated through the "correction of judgment" (orthos logos), ultimately dissolving the apparent paradoxes of his life into a unified philosophical wisdom.egulating negative emotions; 3) the ontology of death-awareness; and 4) selective detachment and spiritual austerity. Drawing upon his seminal works, this study shows that Senecan tranquillity is mediated through the "correction of judgment" (orthos logos), ultimately dissolving the apparent paradoxes of his life into a unified philosophical wisdom.
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Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 19 July 2026