The Enchiridion: Handbook of Epictetus

by Epictetus

An introduction to the stoic philosophy of Epictetus.

Born into slavery and living with a permanent disability, Epictetus (ca. 50–ca. 130 CE) taught that everyone is free to take control of their lives and find harmony with nature. His philosophy revolved around the idea of accepting things for how they are, as this is the key to true happiness. After obtaining his freedom, Epictetus dedicated his life to teaching and counselling a daily routine of self-reflection. His student Arrian later organised and published his master's lectures in the Enchiridion or Manual; an instructional guide to living peacefully with plenty of practical advice. Translated by George Long, this work is a must-have for anyone looking for contentment or those who have already made some progress in that direction.

Genres: Philosophy

96 pages, Paperback

Published February 6, 2023

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

[Dylan M. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Epictetus grew up enslaved with many hardships, I cannot help but notice that fear of commitment rooted in him as a young boy. It makes him a great stoic but I think unrealistic for the modern world. With that said, great insights and lessons from a great man.

[Levi Rudolph · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interessant und kurz, da vieles auch einfach verloren ist nach knapp 2000 Jahren. Besteht im Prinzip nur aus Fragmenten wahrscheinlich. Aber sehr gute Übersetzung, weniger holprig als manch andere Texte.

[Mike Reed · Rating 4 out of 5]

Like Meditations (Marcus Aurelius) but shorter, good short read