Chapter Nineteen
19:1
Book Subtitle: The ancient summary of Epictetus's teachings and philosophy
Book Description: In this book, the whole of Epictetus' philosophy is condensed into 52 key lessons by his student Arrian. The handbook was meant to be kept 'on-hand' by ancient students of Stoicism. It is a guide to be referenced when navigating the trials of life. This makes it both a vivid distillation of the most important Stoic ideas and a tool for the practical application of the philosophy.
Chapter Subtitle: You may be unconquerable, if you enter into no combat in which it is not in your own control to conquer.
19. You may be unconquerable, if you enter into no combat in which it is not in your own control to conquer.
When, therefore, you see anyone eminent in honors, or power, or in high esteem on any other account, take heed not to be hurried away with the appearance, and to pronounce him happy; for, if the essence of good consists in things in our own control, there will be no room for envy or emulation.
But, for your part, don't wish to be a general, or a senator, or a consul, but to be free; and the only way to this is a contempt of things not in our own control.
Book: Handbook
Subtitle: The ancient summary of Epictetus's teachings and philosophy
Author: Epictetus
Chapter: Chapter Nineteen
Chapter Subtitle: You may be unconquerable, if you enter into no combat in which it is not in your own control to conquer.
Location: Chapter 19, Section 1
Content:
19. You may be unconquerable, if you enter into no combat in which it is not in your own control to conquer.
When, therefore, you see anyone eminent in honors, or power, or in high esteem on any other account, take heed not to be hurried away with the appearance, and to pronounce him happy; for, if the essence of good consists in things in our own control, there will be no room for envy or emulation.
But, for your part, don't wish to be a general, or a senator, or a consul, but to be free; and the only way to this is a contempt of things not in our own control.