FindMyTBR

About Discourses and Enchiridion (Unabridged)

"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.