Discourses and Selected Writings (Penguin Classics)

A very worthwhile read. That frames and contextualise subject writings, into thought provoking statements of morality.

The morality of Greek philosophers was the antithesis of our modern one: they believed we should eschew all material desires, not because of some dictate of the heavens, but because they can never be satisfied and come to tyrannise us rather than make us happy. Like Epicurus, Epictetus believed that you had to implement your own philosophy so for his followers it became a quasi-religion. The quasi is justified by the fact that they never drifted away from rational thought. Read Epictetus on why we should not be angry when our neighbour steals from our house, and you will find his logic quite convincing. His thoughts survive (mainly in the form written down by one of his students) because the Church found this Theistic philosopher acceptable, but he is now somewhat ignored. This excellent new translation reads very well, and should encourage us to revisit this thinker.

Really great quality book, filled with lessons and teachings.

“Discourses and Selected Writings” by Epictetus (and his student Arrian) contains the surviving four works as well as some fragments and a manual (Enchiridion) from this second century Greek Stoic philosopher from the Roman Empire. Founded by Zeno of Citium, the Stoics competed with other Hellenistic schools such as the Epicurians and Cynics on the question what it is to live a good life. Together with the Roman senator Seneca and the Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius, the freed slave Epictetus is one of the most influential and famous of these ancient Stoic philosophers. Although the teachings in the “Discourses” seem to be timeless, the actual text is not always easy to read. However, as with most of the Penguin classics, the introduction and footnotes are excellent and provide details and explanations on the philosophy as well as appreciation for this work. In short, Epictetus states that in order to be free and happy, one has to understand what is in one’s control and accept that all other events (“externals”) just happen (fate). One cannot choose what external events happen, but one can choose how to react to those. This requires rigorous self-assessment to understand the difference between what is and what is not in one’s control in specific circumstances in order to respond accordingly. This is what gives choice and therefore freedom. I found these teachings of Epictetus confrontational, inspiring, and utterly convincing. Supported by various podcasts and further readings, I have been trying to apply Epictetus’ teachings ever since. Looking at the continuous stream and wide variety of Stoic (inspired) material, I assume I am not the only one trying to live my life a bit more like a Stoic. In summary, I can recommend this book to anyone interested in the history of ideas in general, Stoicism more specifically or the origins of self-help books.

Ancient though it may be, there is much in these writings that pertain to modern life as much as they did when original laid down. I am not over selling this when I say that my discovery of Stoic philosophy has saved my sanity, if not my life. Accordingly, it has become as important to me as religion may be to others. This book numbers among several texts on this subject that have become my touchstone, my guide and to which I refer daily. Most highly recommended. BTG

Writings from 2000 years ago that are still very much relevant today, indeed timeless. It can be heavy going in parts but stick with it as the are some real gems to be found. It’s a book you can refer back to and quote a few lines from to you friends as well as live by. I particularly like the reference to ‘externals’ for all those things that are outside our control. Nice way to sum it up. We are always in control of how we can respond that’s another message I took. All in all a great book.

brilliant service brilliant book

This is a slow but very rewarding read. Apparently, there is a Chinese proverb that says that the best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is now. That's sort of how I feel about this book - wish I had read it a long time ago, but also grateful that I have found it now.

Just started reading the book and already I keep it with me and read it when I can. Keep in mind that Epictetus never wrote anything down - it was all jotted down by his pupil Arrian (I am still pondering on how he accomplished this). There is a lot of what is mentioned that is relevant today. Quite a few pieces are thought provoking and filled with such profound wisdom. Sometimes you need to set the book down and think about it for a moment. I write notes down and mark the reference page so that I can quickly refer to it later to think and contemplate on it. Definitely a great find. And best of all very comprehensive & easy to read (kudos to the translator)

You should definitely read this book .

Verkoper verkoopt schaamteloos tweedehands boeken als nieuw

Hay muchos libros de Epicteto en el mercado, pero este incluye los discursos y por lo tanto vale mucho más la pena, hay más contexto, se entiende mejor, amplia información.

For anyone who is into philosophy, this is a must read and truly enjoyable, some of the sentences brought a tear to my eye.