Volume I. Discourses
Books 1-2

Like the early Stoics, Epictetus (ca 55-135 A.D.) taught the importance of control over one's own mind and will; since happiness must not depend on things one cannot control, the virtuous person should aspire to become independent of external circumstances. The brotherhood of man is also central to his teaching, reflecting the Stoic belief that there is a spark of divinity in everyone. Unlike his predecessors, Epictetus, who grew up as a slave, taught not for the select few but for the many and the humble. This two-volume edition contains the extant record of his lectures--in lively and informal style--as well as the Manual or Encheiridion, a summary of Epictetus's thought by the historian Arrian, a student of his.

Series No. 131 / 474 pages / ISBN 0-674-99145-1