Essential Stoic

by Epictetus

The essential writings from the three pillars of Stoicism.

Bringing together the essential writings of the three most influential Stoic philosophers, The Essential Stoic is an accessible and instructive guide to living a better life through the teachings of Stoicism, and includes an insightful introduction from Mark Tuitert, Olympic speed skater and bestselling author of The Stoic Mindset.

Distilling the wisdom of the three Stoic masters, this volume contains the three most widely-read volumes of Stoic philosophy in history. Readers will get a comprehensive, 360-degree view of Stoicism, from Epictetus’ ethics to Marcus Aurelius’ reflections to Seneca’s aphorisms.

Hailed as one of Rome’s “last good emperors,” Marcus Aurelius reflects on living wisely, calmly, and virtuously in a chaotic world. Epictetus describes the need to rationally accept the world around us and live with uncompromising virtue. Seneca provides quick, accessible Stoic wisdom in a series of letters to his friend Lucilius.

The philosophers’ combined wisdom shows readers how to live their best lives, staying calm and rational in the face of hardship, remaining true to their own code of ethics, and accepting the world on its own terms.

Genres: Philosophy, Nonfiction, Classics

384 pages, Paperback

Published January 23, 2024

About the author

Epictetus was a Greek Stoic philosopher. He was probably born a slave at Hierapolis, Phrygia (present day Pamukkale, Turkey), and lived in Rome until his exile to Nicopolis in northwestern Greece, where he lived most of his life and died. His teachings were noted down and published by his pupil Arrian in his Discourses. Philosophy, he taught, is a way of life and not just a theoretical discipline. To Epictetus, all external events are determined by fate, and are thus beyond our control, but we can accept whatever happens calmly and dispassionately. Individuals, however, are responsible for their own actions which they can examine and control through rigorous self-discipline. Suffering arises from trying to control what is uncontrollable, or from neglecting what is within our power. As part of the universal city that is the universe, human beings have a duty of care to all fellow humans. The person who followed these precepts would achieve happiness.

Other language versions:
Epictète
Epícteto
Epiktet

Reviews

[Michelle Croal]

I'm not sure if it's this edition or the translation or Marcus Aurelius but it's just too hard to get into. There are snippets here and there that resonate but it's not as readable as "Art of Living". I might skip ahead to Epictitus or just shelve for later. Right now, I need more fun in my life.