The Enchiridion & Discourses of Epictetus
About this book
This collection has four preserved volumes of The Discourses and The Enchiridion by Epictetus and a detailed biography of the book's author. About the Author: In light of modern research and knowledge gained by deciphering of the Greek anecdotes of ancient times, the date of birth of Epictetus is estimated to be around 55 A.D. His place of birth is contemplated as Hierapolis, Phrygia (now a part of Turkey). The birth name of Epictetus is still unknown and his known name "Epictetus" simply means "acquired" in Greek. Possibly this name was christened or rechristened upon him by his master Epaphroditos. Epaphroditos was a wealthy freedman and a secretary to Nero (Nero Claudius Caesar Augustus Germanicus was a Roman Emperor between 54–68 A.D.; Nero was an infamous emperor who according to the Greek people was responsible for lighting the Great Fire of Rome in 18 July to 19 July 64 A.D. He committed suicide in 68 A.D. to escape assassination). His Interest in Philosophy and His Freedom: In the early phases of his life, Epictetus acquired great interest/passion in philosophy, and with the permission of his affluent master he studied Stoic philosophy under the guidance of Musonius Rufus. This allowed him to gain education and respect in society. After the death of Nero in 64 A.D., he acquired his freedom and started teaching Stoic philosophy in Rome. His School in Nicopolis, Epirus: When Domitian came to power and become Emperor of Rome in 93 A.D., he banished all philosophers from the city. Domitian was a believer in Jupiter and emphasized on enhanced connections with it and patronized its priests and temples at Capitoline Hill. He was great devotee of the goddess Minerva. When Domitian banished philosophers from Rome, Epictetus ran to Nicopolis, Epirus, and laid base of his school of thought/philosophy. His Discourses and the Enchiridion: His most famous pupil Arrian of Nicomedia, who was a historian, military commander, public servant and philosopher of the 2nd century, studied under him in his youth and claimed to have written his famous Discourses. Arrian describes his teacher Epictetus as a powerful and magnetic speaker who had the ability to make the listeners feel anything that he desired. He tells that many eminent figures of that time often sought conversation with Epictetus. He further exclaims that Roman emperor Hadrian had friendly relationships with Epictetus. It is noteworthy that Hadrian was a successor of Domitian.