Il kairos come occasione di mettersi alla prova

Once the etymological meaning of kairos has been analyzed, it is a question of grasping its value with respect to the more general conception of time and the instant, so that we can better define the theory of acting and deciding in the Greek and Roman world. The comparison is above all with Aristotle. Then we move on to probe the relationship between kairos and kindunos: a direct connection between risk and decision-making will emerge. The case of Phaeton is analyzed, starting with Seneca’s De providentia. Hence, here is the figure of the Stoic sapiens facing the moment of choosing the opportune time for death. The theme of courage and the role of phronesis are evoked, to define the way in which the responsibility of the subject comes into play in front of the kairos.