Relying on Seneca in moments of crisis: The case of princess Elizabeth of Bohemia

This paper looks at the correspondence between Princess Elizabeth of Bohemia (1618-1680) and French philosopher Ren? Descartes (1596-1650). Analyzing specific segments letters they addressed to each other, it emerges that Descartes, advising recommending her read Seneca, was also following an ancient, or more precisely, Stoic therapeutic technique. Namely, seems he, like Stoics, believed philosophy could provide a kind consolation support in moments crisis, is, during turbulent life.