The Philosophy of Epictetus is a short, mid-twentieth century compilation of the teachings of Epictetus. Edited by John Bonforte, it makes for a nice curated intro to the philosopher, sourced mostly from the Discourses. Based on earlier translations, it’s lightly edited and compiled into a concise introduction to Stoicism. Epictetus didn’t write his books. Students like Arrian did, which removes Bonforte by another layer, shaping already-transcribed material for a 1955 presentation.
And this Stoicism Epictetus taught? Classic ideas of separating what can be controlled from what can’t, self-mastery and discipline, freedom through inner independence, and ethics as practice. That last one in particular. Philosophy isn’t just something you read in the lecture hall, it’s something you do. You haven’t read Stoicism, you are reading it. It’s a process, not a checkbox, that’s how I tend to see it. For Epictetus, philosophy begins with recognising one’s own ignorance and applying these principles in everyday life. Bonforte’s selection of works really drive this point home. His text is clear and accessible, ideal for readers who want the general gist of Stoicism without wading knee-deep in the Discourses. It’s not critical or scholarly, and it relies on older translations, and is very light on historical and philosophical commentary. Like I said, curated.
Epictetus can be an adult dose, rigid and dogmatic. But just when you think he’s this stuffy old geezer lecturing you on life and morality, just when you feel like closing the book and calling it quits, he goes and drops an awesome one-liner on you, like the classic:
“No thing great is created suddenly, any more than a bunch of grapes or a fig. If you tell me that you desire a fig, I answer you that there must be time. Let it first blossom, then bear fruit, then ripen.”
Then I remember why I love him so much. Plus his story is very incredible. Born into a life of slavery, his owner gave him permission to study what we now call the liberal arts. Musonius Rufus became his teacher and mentor, and Epictetus gained his freedom, becoming a philosophy teacher. He would go on to influence Marcus Aurelius. It’s a testament as to how diverse the Stoics can be, and a reminder that philosophy is for everyone, not just those who dwell in ivory towers.
The Philosophy of Epictetus makes for a nice bridge between classical Stoicism and the modern revivalist movement we have today. It might not be the best choice if you prefer a deeper interpretation and more historical context. But if practical philosophy is what you’re looking for, and you want a concise introduction to Epictetus, look no further.
Lawrence Deveney 