The Enchiridion & Discourses

De: Epictetus

Narrado por: Haward B. Morse

The Enchiridion is the famous manual of ethical advice given in the second century by the Stoic philosopher Epictetus.

Born to a Greek slave, Epictetus grew up in the environment of the Roman Empire and, having been released from bonds of slavery, became a Stoic in the tradition of its originators, Zeno (third Century BCE) and Seneca (first century CE).

Epictetus didn't leave a formal written legacy, but his pupil, Arrian, collected his teachings, and posterity now has The Enchiridion and The Discourses. The first is a short compilation of Stoical precepts - how to live an ethical life. It is essentially about everyday life, and it maintained its popularity throughout the succeeding centuries, on par with the other principal concise Stoic document from the Roman period, Meditations by Marcus Aurelius - who had clearly read it.

The Enchiridion is presented here as the translation by Thomas W. Higginson. The Discourses, a much longer text again compiled by Arrian, contains a more comprehensive view of the teachings of Epictetus. The Discourses is translated by George Long.

Public Domain (P)2016 Ukemi Productions Ltd

Good, if a bit repetitive

Interesting material that seems to anticipate cognitive behavioral therapy by a couple thousand years. But I wish that I had read a printed copy instead so that I could have more easily skipped the repeated points.

Good stuff, but

ok, so the book was good, and I realize that much of what was in Marcus Aurelius's Meditations was based off of Epictetus's Discourses and Enchiridion (or at least the latter)

I found this book to be less impactful than Marcus Aurelius's Meditations though, and less coherent than Plato's Republic which I had read prior, and which remains my favorite book from the greek philosophy genre. So originally, I would give this book an overall 4-star review, but only informally as I don't want to tarnish the reputation of this original work from Epictetus.

It definitely is a recommended read to anyone wishing to gain more control over their own lives.

True wisdom

There is nothing more to say to describe this book. It’s true wisdom and knowledge.

An amazing and timeless collection

Is an amazing book. Truly remarkeable objective observation of life. Very Spiritual and yet terrestrial. This Philosophy of life applies completely in todays society. I strongly recommend it be taught in schools.

Must read

One of a small handful of books that I think everyone should read early in life, as they start to think about who they are and their place in the world.

A view into stoicism

A faithful rating of the text. A helpful understanding of stoicism.Good advice for people looking to improve their station.

More useful stoic wisdom.

Surprisingly useful and easy to integrate. Wise words and examples from a former slave. Thank you.

Skip therapy, read this, get freedom

The book offers a path to freedom. Nothing more, nothing less. Building off Homer’s use of appearances Epictetus shows us clear thinking in forming right opinions.

Timeless wisdom and truth

Truth sounds the same, wether it's spoken today or 2000 years ago. This is the only book I've listened to on repeat, over and over and still clean something new, time and again.

Invaluable

Required reading for any serious Stoic. Should be required reading for everyone. Practical wisdom from the master.