The Complete Works

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The complete surviving works of Epictetus, the influential Stoic philosopher from antiquity, present a profound exploration of personal agency and moral philosophy. Born into slavery around 50 CE, Epictetus became a prominent philosophy teacher after gaining his freedom. Following his expulsion from Rome, he dedicated his life to teaching in Greece, solidifying his status as a key figure in Stoicism. His works, primarily recorded by his student Arrian, include a series of impassioned discourses and the Handbook, which encapsulates the essence of his teachings. In these writings, Epictetus emphasizes that true happiness stems from understanding what we can control and what we cannot. While our internal states and responses are within our power, external events are determined by a benevolent deity, and we should regard them—along with our bodies, possessions, and relationships—as indifferent, focusing instead on how we can best utilize them. The Discourses and Handbook serve as a practical guide for moral self-improvement, detailing the exercises and reflections necessary for enriching one’s life. Edited and translated by renowned scholar Robin Waterfield, this collection offers modern readers invaluable insights into navigating challenges such as death, exile, interpersonal relationships, and the unpredictability of life.