Epictetus

Epictetus was born a slave, and became one of the most influential Stoic philosophers. Stoicism is the attitude allowing one to free oneself from the unnecessary suffering that arises from anxiety about events that are beyond our control; therefore, it can be of tremendous importance in one's life. According to Epictetus, our own actions and attitudes are the only thing in our control; whatever else happens, we should examine calmly and dispassionately, because no amount of suffering will change the impact of external events.

Audiobook 600 Quotes of Ancient Philosophy: Confucius, Epictetus, Marcus Aurelius, Plato, Socrates, Aristotle. Become familiar with the most important ancient philosophers, those who shaped Western philosophy. Delve deep into their works and thoughts with a selection of the essential quotes introducing their major ideas and delineating the structure of their work with clarity.

The discourses of the great Stoic philosopher Epictetus are regarded as some of the most influential teachings of the ancient world. Born into slavery and sent into exile before setting up a school of philosophy, Epictetus delivered a series of lectures where he argued that true happiness comes only when we learn to distinguish what is within our power and what is beyond our personal control. Using George Long’s 1890 translation, this edition includes a selection of Epictetus’ key principles, as well as a manual of his core philosophy, the Encheiridion. With clarity, conviction and timeless wisdom that is as relevant today as it was two thousand years ago, these teachings navigate the complexities of the human condition and offer rational guidance for the turmoil of modern life.