Kristeva, Stoicism, and the "True Life of Interpretations"

Ancient Stoic theories and exercises are currently enjoying a wave of enthusiasm and experimental re-appropriation. Into these currents I propose adding Kristeva’s reading of the Stoic “life of interpretations.” First I explain Kristeva’s numerous but scattered and elliptical remarks and criticisms, which tie together many domains of her thought. Second, I evaluate her reading in the light of several Stoic texts. Working through both her insights and her blind spots is important for appreciating what “modern Stoicism” is and could become. I conclude with several suggestions for further dialogue between the evolving Stoic tradition and contemporary thought.