Slaves By Seneca Summary

The work, “Slaves” by Seneca, is a personal essay where the author speaks upon the improving of the treatment of slaves. He also speaks of the way a master would treat a slave and how a master should treat a slave nicely for his own sake. Seneca’s straightforward mentality promotes the welfare of the master, but does not advocate rectification among the slaves. The article goes into depth as to what Seneca’s personal assessment of a master’s action towards slaves. A few examples include that it is laughed upon and degrading for a master to dine with his slaves. While the master has an abundance of food and is full, the slaves stay hungry and must not speak a word throughout the entire meal. As a result of not being allowed to speak in the master’s presence, the slave must speak about him. Seneca acknowledges that when allowed to speak with the master, the slave is greatly more willing to be proactive and willing to be put in threatening situations for their master. The author also touches on treating one’s slaves with a greater amount of clemency and deference. His words touch on the respect for a man, and that respect is a reflection of love, and love is to not be associated with fear. Lastly, he ends with a word of
The beginning of the essay, where the author’s personal opinion and introduction to the subject appears, presents the readers with his motive. He also includes reasons and explanations to support his idea, as well as suggestions and ways to improve the relationship between a master and his slave. In many instances, Seneca also includes opposing arguments and quickly responds with a rebuttal. In the second section, the reader may find examples of specific individuals that relate to the subject. Individuals including, Hecuba, Callistus, and Plato, help to provide solid resources to his argument. Lastly, at the end of the essay, a lesson, or moral is stated to bring the article to a