Source edition
Epictetus. Epicteti Dissertationes ab Arriano Digestae. Schenkl, Heinrich, editor. Leipzig:Teubner, 1916.
Source data
Open Greek and Latin · CC BY-SA 4.0
Cloned and adapted by Humanitext, with ongoing edits.
Summary
This work is a collection of ethical maxims by the Stoic philosopher Epictetus. It begins by contrasting a life governed by fortune with one led by virtue, emphasizing the importance of self-examination and why reason should be valued over wealth through rich metaphors. It then moves to practical guidelines for daily life, such as self-control at banquets and maintaining a humble pursuit of truth over vanity in dialogue. Furthermore, the text explains that the essence of freedom and servitude lies not in external circumstances but in the will and the virtue of the soul, urging the reader to adorn themselves with temperance rather than material wealth. Finally, the discussion expands to social justice, detailing the objectivity required of judges and the duty of rulers to cultivate the souls and virtues of their citizens.