Description

The original Latin name of this important essay by Seneca written around 60 CE was De Beneficiis which is why it is generally translated as On Benefits However it is more usefully titled On Favours because this is what it is essentially about the giving and receiving of favours with all the implications of such transactions Seneca is concerned with demonstrating that while such exchanges can be straightforward and beneficial to both parties often there are pitfalls and hidden complications that sooner or later result in problems Though some centuries later Shakespeare summed it up concisely with Poloniuss warning Neither a borrower nor a lender be Seneca is well aware that in all levels and activities of society benefits or favours play an undoubtedly crucial role This was certainly true of Roman society but little has changed since Seneca deals with the subject in detail considering the purposes of role of the giver of which kindness he says is an important aspect but not the only one by any means Similarly the role and attitude of the receiver plays its part and gratitude is again only one response Senecas background as a Stoic underpins his approach so he warns against the inappropriate giving and receiving of benefits which extend far beyond just material goods it includes influence wives patronage and all manner of vice and immorality In short Seneca points out that the giving and receiving of favours can be and often is a pernicious and dangerous affair resulting in later disaster Something to be exercised with caution