The pure and perfect life of the soul may still be described as a field whereon the four virtues are exercised, but they now assume a far higher meaning than as political virtues, having relation solely to the contemplative life of the Nous.
Happiness is unknown to Plotinus as distinct from perfection, and perfection in the sense of having subdued all material cravings (except as regards the bare necessities of life), and entered upon the undisturbed life of contemplation.

If this recalls, at least in name, the Aristotelian ideal, there are points added that appear to be echoes of Stoicism.

Rapt in the contemplation of eternal verities, the purified soul is indifferent to external circumstances: pain and suffering are unheeded, and the just man can feel happy even in the bull of Phalaris.

But in one important respect the Neo-Platonic teaching is at variance with Stoical doctrine.

Though its first and last precept is to rid the soul from the bondage of matter, it warns against the attempt to sever body and soul by suicide.