Enchiridion Summary | Chapterly
Enchiridion by Epictetus: A Complete Summary "Some things are within our power, while others are not." Overview The Enchiridion (Greek for "handbook" or "manual") is a concise guide to Stoic philosophy compiled by Epictetus's student Arrian. In just 53 short passages, it distills the essence of Epictetus's teachings into practical advice for living. What makes Epictetus unique among Stoic philosophers is his background: born a slave in Asia Minor, he later gained his freedom and became one of the most respected teachers in Rome. His philosophy emerged from direct experience with powerlessness and the discovery of inner freedom. The Fundamental Principle The Enchiridion opens with the most important distinction in Stoic philosophy: "Some things are within our power, while others are not. Within our power are opinion, motivation, desire, aversion, and, in a word, whatever is of our own doing; not within our power are our body, our property, reputation, office, and, in a word, whatever is not of our own doing." What We Control Our judgments and opinions Our desires and aversions Our impulses to act Our use of impressions What We Don't Control Our bodies (health, appearance, aging) Our possessions (they can be taken) Our reputation (others' opinions)...