Epictetus

Easton Press Epictetus books

The Art of Living - 1995

Franklin Library Epictetus books

Works of Marcus Aurelius, Epictetus and Titus Lucretius Carus - Great Books of the Western World - 1981

 

Epictetus biography

Epictetus (circa 55 – 135 AD) was a Greek Stoic philosopher who lived during the Roman Imperial period. Born as a slave in Hierapolis, Phrygia (present-day Pamukkale, Turkey), he endured a challenging early life before gaining his freedom. Despite his humble beginnings, Epictetus rose to prominence as one of the most influential Stoic philosophers, leaving a lasting legacy through his teachings on ethics, virtue, and personal well-being. Epictetus spent much of his life in Rome, where he studied Stoic philosophy under the tutelage of the Stoic philosopher Musonius Rufus. His philosophical outlook was deeply rooted in the Stoic tradition, which emphasized the importance of reason, virtue, and acceptance of events beyond one's control.

What distinguishes Epictetus's teachings is his emphasis on personal agency and the cultivation of an inner disposition characterized by tranquility in the face of external circumstances. Central to his philosophy was the concept of distinguishing between things within our control (our thoughts, attitudes, and actions) and those beyond our control (external events, other people's opinions). He famously stated, "We cannot choose our external circumstances, but we can always choose how we respond to them."

Epictetus did not leave behind written works; his teachings were transcribed by his student Arrian in a series of discourses known as the Discourses of Epictetus and the Enchiridion (a manual of his key teachings). In these writings, Epictetus addressed a wide range of topics, providing practical guidance on how individuals could live virtuous lives and attain inner tranquility. One of Epictetus's fundamental ideas was that individuals have the power to shape their character through the choices they make and the attitudes they adopt. He advocated for living in accordance with nature, aligning one's will with the rational order of the universe, and accepting whatever comes with equanimity.

Epictetus pronunciation

How to pronounce epictetus? is a common question. The pronunciation of "Epictetus" is typically rendered as:

eh-pik-TEE-tus

Each syllable has distinct pronunciation. The emphasis is usually on the second syllable, "TEE." Keep in mind that the "c" is pronounced like a "k," and the final "us" is pronounced "tus."


Epictetus's philosophy has resonated through the centuries and has influenced many thinkers, from the Stoics who followed him to later philosophers and even contemporary psychologists. His emphasis on personal responsibility, ethical behavior, and the development of inner resilience continues to inspire individuals seeking wisdom and a meaningful approach to life. Epictetus's teachings remain relevant and continue to offer valuable insights into the art of living a virtuous and fulfilling existence.

 

The Art of Living - The Classical Manual on Virtue, Happiness and Effectiveness

Epictetus was born into slavery about 55 C.E. in the eastern outreaches of the Roman Empire. Sold as a child and crippled from the beatings of his master, Epictetus was eventually freed, rising from his humble roots to establish an influential school of Stoic philosophy. Stressing that human beings cannot control life, only how they respond to it, Epictetus dedicated his life to outlining the simple way to happiness, fulfillment, and tranquility. By putting into practice the ninety-three witty, wise, and razor-sharp instructions that make up The Art of Living, readers learn to successfully meet the challenges of everyday life and face life's inevitable losses and disappointments with grace.

Epictetus's teachings rank among the greatest wisdom texts of human civilization. Sharon Lebell presents this esteemed philosopher's invaluable insights for the first time in a splendidly down-to-earth rendition. The result is the West's first and best primer for living the best possible life as helpful in the twenty-first century as it was in the first.

Epictetus became one of the most influential thinkers of his time. Discourses and Selected Writings is a transcribed collection of informal lectures given by the philosopher around AD 108. A gateway into the life and mind of a great intellectual, it is also an important example of the usage of Koine or ?common? Greek, an ancestor to Standard Modern Greek.