Stoic Quote: Whatever Fate One Man Can Strike – A Lesson from Seneca

Welcome to The Via Stoica Podcast: Stoic Quotes Series

In this episode of the Stoic Quotes Series, we reflect on a striking line found in Seneca’s Consolation to Marcia—originally attributed to the slave philosopher Publius Syrus:

“Whatever fate one man can strike can come to all of us alike.”
– Publius, quoted in Seneca, Dialogues and Essays, Consolation to Marcia, 9

This quote is part of a powerful letter Seneca wrote to a grieving mother who had lost her son in battle. He reminds us that suffering is not reserved for the few—it’s part of the shared human experience. In this episode, we explore how to use this truth not as a source of despair, but as a source of preparation, connection, and compassion.

We’ll break down the quote, put it in its historical context, and offer Stoic practices to help you reflect on loss, unpredictability, and the strength found in solidarity.

If you're looking for more wisdom like this, visit viastoica.com, where you'll find hundreds of authentic Stoic quotes—each verified and referenced so you can trust and use them.

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