Epictetus:
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Epictetus Quotes
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175 Quotes for Timeless Wisdom on Self-Reflection, Truth, and Living with True Freedom
Discover the timeless wisdom of Epictetus through his powerful quotes. From the importance of self-reflection and self-improvement to the pursuit of truth and the liberation of the mind, these quotes offer valuable insights on how to navigate life's challenges and live with true freedom.
Epictetus was a Greek Stoic philosopher who emphasized that philosophy is not just a theoretical discipline, but a way of life. He believed that external events are beyond our control and advocated for accepting whatever happens calmly and without passion. However, he also believed individuals have the responsibility to examine and control their own actions through self-discipline.
Born into slavery in Hierapolis, Phrygia around AD 50, Epictetus spent his youth in Rome as a slave to a wealthy freedman. With permission from his master, he studied Stoic philosophy under Musonius Rufus, which elevated his social status. After obtaining his freedom and teaching philosophy in Rome, Epictetus moved to Nicopolis in Greece when all philosophers were banished from Rome by Emperor Domitian. There, he founded a school and gained fame as a powerful speaker who could influence the emotions of his listeners.
Epictetus lived a simple life with few possessions and eventually adopted a friend's child in his old age. Although it is unclear if he was married, he raised the child with the help of a woman. He died around AD 135, and even after his death, his influence continued to be revered by many as evident by the significant amount paid for his oil lamp by an admirer.
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50 AC – 138
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Other names
Epiktétos z Hierápole
