Práticas políticas do patronato em âmbito aristocrático na concepção de Sêneca: um estudo à luz do Sobre os benefícios (62 d.C.)

Abstract

Patronage system is investigated in this dissertation as one of the Roman aristocracy operations during the Principate of Julius-Claudian Dinasty under the view of Seneca in the treatise On Benefits. Political practices were a way of communication in which the exchange of favors and resources inserted themselves in the Roman aristocracy negotiations in pursuit of power, honor and distinction. So, the treatise On Benefits, written in the end of neronian period, analyses the relations between Roman aristocratic patrons and clients stressing the senatorial and equestrian orders and their bond to the Princeps and imperial aula. Such analysis is possible from a study on the formulation of a political practice proposal based on the stoic virtues. Then, Seneca uses stoic scope to reflect the tensions and disputes of his political context. Similarities and differences between Seneca’s and earlier stoics treatment are stressed in relation to the exchange of favors. Therefore, it’s offered the suggestion that patronage system is one of the keys to the comprehension of the political practices complexity of Roman Principate.