Seneca Letters #83 – On Drunkenness

Seneca’s Letters from a Stoic are a collection of letters that Seneca wrote to his friend Lucilius, offering insights into philosophy and life. In Letter 83, Seneca explores the topic of drunkenness, a common issue in ancient Rome.

Seneca begins the letter by discussing how people often use alcohol as an escape from the challenges of life. However, he argues that such an escape is not a solution but a temporary relief, and ultimately leads to more problems. He emphasizes that true happiness and contentment come from within, not from external sources.

One of the most important quotes from the letter is: “drunkenness, my dear Lucilius, is nothing but a condition in which we forget what is shameful and vicious and the mind surrenders itself to disgraceful and shameful pleasures.”

Seneca goes on to explain that drunkenness causes people to act in ways they normally would not, making them more likely to engage in shameful and vicious behavior. He also points out that alcohol weakens the mind and clouds judgment, making it more difficult to make rational decisions.

In contrast, he suggests that true strength and resilience come from facing challenges and overcoming them without the aid of alcohol. He argues that this is what separates the wise from the foolish, the strong from the weak.

Seneca also discusses the physical and mental damage that excessive drinking can cause. He notes that alcoholism leads to liver damage and other health issues, and can also lead to mental health problems such as depression and anxiety.

Seneca concludes the letter by reminding Lucilius that true joy and fulfillment come from living a virtuous life, and that drinking should not be used as a crutch to avoid facing life’s challenges.

In our modern society, alcohol is still widely consumed and often viewed as a way to relax or have fun. However, Seneca’s message is still relevant today. Alcohol can still be used as a crutch to avoid dealing with problems, and excessive drinking can still lead to health and mental health problems.

Furthermore, Seneca’s message that true happiness comes from within is still as relevant today as it was in ancient Rome. We should strive to find joy and fulfillment in our daily lives without relying on external sources such as alcohol.

In conclusion, Seneca’s Letter 83 is a powerful reminder of the dangers of excessive drinking and the importance of finding joy and fulfillment in life through virtuous living. His message is a timeless one, and we can all benefit from taking his advice to heart.