Discourses and Enchiridion

"It's not what happens to you, but how you react to it that matters." Discourses and Enchiridion are foundational works of Stoic philosophy attributed to Epictetus, a former slave-turned-philosopher whose teachings emphasised that happiness comes not from external circumstances but from aligning one's desires with reality; and that in order to attain a good life through inner tranquillity, one must master one's desires, fulfil one's duties and practice right-thinking. The Discourses consists of detailed teachings and dialogues delivered by Epictetus, covering various aspects of ethics, virtue, and the nature of reality, while Enchiridion is a concise summary of Epictetus' teachings, designed for practical application. Both works stress the importance of personal responsibility, the necessity of self-examination, the pursuit of wisdom, and the cultivation of character as pathways to a fulfilling life. Epictetus (c. 55 – 135 CE) was a Stoic philosopher who lived most of his life in Rome as a slave and who, after gaining his freedom, established a philosophical school. Epictetus deeply influenced later thinkers and continues to be a significant figure in philosophy, particularly in discussions of ethics and personal resilience.