Epictetus

By A.A. Long,

Book cover of Epictetus: A Stoic and Socratic Guide to Life

Book description

The philosophy of Epictetus, a freed slave in the Roman Empire, has been profoundly influential on Western thought: it offers not only stimulating ideas but practical guidance in living one's life. A. A. Long, a leading scholar of later ancient philosophy, gives the definitive presentation of the thought of Epictetus…

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Why read it?

2 authors picked Epictetus as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?

Another Stoic classic. Written, again, in a highly accessible, conversational style. In fact, the only teachings by Epictetus that we know of today were recorded from his lectures by his disciple Arrian.  This book has given great solace to many people over the years. It is said that Frederick the Great never campaigned without it. And, the war hero Admiral James Stockdale credits Epictetus with helping him endure seven and a half years in a North Vietnamese military prison—including torture—and four years in solitary confinement. “No man is free who is not master of himself.”

From Morgan's list on Stoicism and ancient Rome.

A. A. Long is one of the foremost researchers on Stoicism and his contributions span many decades. This book is intended for those wishing to take a deeper dive into the thought of Epictetus; but do not let that frighten you away. As he explains in his introduction, “I do not presume any prior knowledge of Epictetus or Stoic philosophy…” And yet, Long manages to thread the needle by writing a book that profits scholars working in Stoic philosophy but also that is highly accessible to those with no prior training. In addition, Long deftly connects Epictetus’ philosophy to an…

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