Epictetus' Enchiridion: Handbook of Stoic Life Principles

by Donald Carlson

This edition of the classic handbook on Stoic living contains original Greek text and a contemporary English translation set forth in parallel fashion, and formatted with active table of contents and internal links for easy navigation.

Genres: Philosophy, Classics, Nonfiction

106 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 31, 2012

Reviews

[Andrew]

The only things in our control are our actions (more specifically, our opinions, pursuits, desires, and aversions); those things which are not in our control are everything else (body, property, reputation, or that which is not an action). If you desire anything that is not in your control, you will necessarily be disappointed. So don’t desire those things that are not in your control.

- Men are disturbed, not by things in themselves, but by the principles and notions which they form concerning those things. What is yours? Only your actions and reactions towards the outside world. Everything else is not your concern. Don’t demand that things happen as you wish, but wish that they happen as they do, and you will go on well. Exercise only that which is in your control and your desires will never be disappointed. Remember that you are an actor in a drama, of such a kind as the author pleases to make it. If short, of a short one; if long, of a long one. If it is his pleasure you should act a poor man, a cripple, a governor, or a private person, see that you act it naturally. For this is your business, to act well the character assigned you; to choose it is another. Don’t wish to be a general, or a senator, or a consul, but to be free; and the only way to this is a contempt of things not in your control.

- He then talks about practical daily advice: be for the most part silent or speak merely what is necessary; don’t allow your laughter be much; avoid swearing; avoid public and vulgar entertainments; provide things relating to the body no further than mere use; keep yourself pure from familiarities with women; in conversation, avoid frequent mention of your own actions because others won’t appreciate this.

[Eric]

There is no better introduction to philosophy. I have used this with 8th grade for years. Marcus Auerelius' favorite book, it is always controversial, getting students thinking and questioning.
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5th year reading this with 8th graders. They love it!

[Kevin Maxwell]

Some great pointers for first century Stoic Philosophy to help bring peace of mind in the present moment. My favorite quote was about wishing things to be as they are.

[Tamar Viz]

(3.5) What’s in your control and what’s not? This book will give you the answer. I mulled over that a lot. I really just wanted to read this as a precursor to discourses.

[Seppe Boonen]

I disagree with Epictetus. The price of happiness is suffering. What is detachment from suffering if one is then evenly detached from happiness ?

[Jen]

⭐️⭐️⭐️ 3 Stars

Enchiridion is certainly an intriguing work, especially given its age and influence on Stoic philosophy. I picked it up curious to see how timeless the wisdom would feel, and while there are definitely nuggets of insight throughout, the overall reading experience didn’t quite live up to my expectations.

It’s a very short book, and instead of flowing like a narrative or even a more detailed philosophical exploration, it reads more like a straightforward list of principles and maxims. While that format makes it easy to reference, it also left me wanting more context and depth.

I’m glad I read it for its historical and philosophical significance, but as a reading experience, it felt a bit flat and less engaging than I hoped. A solid introduction to Stoicism, but not necessarily one I’d return to for enjoyment.

[John Rickert]

Crystalline, perennial wisdom

Although the term "Perennial Philosophy" often connotes the tradition coming mainly from Plato and Aristotle, I think that one should give much more regard to (Roman) Stoicism than it usually gets, e.g., in introductory courses on philosophy. There are many highly insightful and thought-provoking statements in this book. Not that I agree with all of them, but definitely worthy of consideration. The translation is commendably accurate and readable.

[Ryan Arbuckle]

A dismal reminder of my dislike for stoic thought. There are a few good sentiments scattered throughout, but they are flooded over by the odd and displeasurable aphorisms. Many, and i mean many, of these thoughts are blatantly dangerous to not just think, but to enact and live.
This is not to say that these thoughts will not help others and that people shouldn't read this book, I would just err on the side of caution when interacting with these ideas.

[Chris Fordham]

Star rating ancient Greek thinking seems inappropriate. This is my first reading of stoicism and I find the ideas relatable and interesting. In some aspects the thought goes a bit beyond...but I'm yet to find a field of philosophy that this doesn't happen in, but then you should never expect a definitive philosophy because then the discussion would be over.

[Dylan]

this book created a broad sense of control in my life in the actions of life such as with friends,

personal endeavors and strengths.

life is so important to be humble

be kind to other as it will reflect on your self

not to see your in others image

to take action in your life even with the things you can’t control.

[Christopher Mitchell]

Some of it was remarkable wisdom, and other parts, though reflective of its time, I couldn't get past.

[Mariam.022]

agree with some, disagree with some.

[Nia Perez]

Disagree with alot but i prefer this to meditations cause epictetus was a slave

[Keith Zuniga]

Some interesting wisdom from the past, that can be used in the present as well.

This is a short read with interesting perspectives presented.

I recommend to anyone.