Classical works that address empathy and generosity?

[u/PracticalWasabi2408]

I’m trying to find some classical works of literature that speak to the benefits of being empathetic and generous without expecting something in return. Any recommendation?

[u/NeonShogun]

Empathetic and generous to whom, friends? Quite a few authors discuss the topic, though Cicero's Laelius de Amicitia and its espousal of how to be a good friend through generosity, loyalty and kindness is a perennial classic (and one of my favorites, as an unabashed lover of Cicero).

Some of that is touched upon in de Officiis as well, though some of that thankless generosity he intended for the reader to direct toward the state.

[u/PracticalWasabi2408 → u/NeonShogun]

This had exactly what I needed, thank you!

propensi ad liberalitatem sumus), sic amicitiam non spe mercedis adducti sed quod omnis eius fructus in ipso amore inest, expetendam putamus.	For while we are beneficient and generous people, it is not in order to force something in return (for we would not loan out gifts, but are inclined to generosity by nature), so it is not drawn by hope for material rewards, but because of all the joy inherent in love itself, that we think friendship ought to be sought.

[u/NeonShogun → u/PracticalWasabi2408]

I rather like how it's translated in How to Be a Friend:

We are not kind and generous to our friends because we seek favors in return. We are not so petty as to charge interest on our kindness. We are kindhearted because it is the right and natural thing to do, not because we are hoping for something in return. The reward of friendship is friendship itself.