Born in AD 50 in what is now Turkey, Epictetus lived much of his life as a slave in Rome, an experience that profoundly shaped his worldview. Despite his humble status, Epictetus’s profound wisdom and keen insights into the human condition continue to hold great significance today.
His enduring legacy within Stoicism centers on two key principles — personal freedom and self-discipline. He firmly believed that, although we cannot control external circumstances, we possess the power to govern our thoughts and reactions. This central notion finds its expression in his renowned words, “Our peace of mind is not disturbed by events themselves, but by our perception of them.”
Another cornerstone of Epictetus’s philosophy is the concept of the dichotomy of control. He maintained that certain aspects of life fall within our grasp, such as our beliefs, desires, and judgments, while others, like the actions of others or the natural course of events, lie beyond our influence. By grasping this fundamental distinction, we can spare ourselves needless suffering and preserve inner tranquility.
Epictetus’s timeless wisdom remains remarkably applicable in our contemporary world. Think about the relentless onslaught of online provocations and political discord. While we cannot manage how others perceive or judge us on the internet, we possess the power to reject the notion that their opinions define our self-worth. This serves as a vital reminder for anyone overwhelmed by the relentless pressures of our hyper-connected society.
Despite enduring harsh physical mistreatment from his master, Epaphroditus, Epictetus maintained his composure and unwavering commitment to learning and developing his philosophical framework. It’s likely that he drew from his own experiences to illustrate his philosophical teachings, demonstrating that one can sustain inner peace and resilience regardless of external circumstances.
His influence extended far beyond his own era, with the Roman Emperor and philosopher, Marcus Aurelius, regarding Epictetus as a profound source of inspiration. Epictetus’s teachings were meticulously recorded by his student Arrian in a collection of works known as the Discourses, which, along with the Enchiridion—a manual encapsulating his core ideas—continue to serve as foundational texts for contemporary students of Stoicism.