Epictetus: The Former Slave Who Redefined Stoicism | SoundHeal

Epictetus, a former slave turned prominent Stoic philosopher, left an indelible mark on the history of philosophy. Born around 55 AD in Phrygia, Epictetus was owned by Epaphroditus, a secretary to the Roman Emperor Nero, before gaining his freedom. He went on to establish his own philosophical school in Nicopolis, where he taught a distinctive brand of Stoicism that emphasized the importance of living in accordance with nature and accepting the things that are outside of one's control. With a Vibe score of 82, Epictetus' teachings have had a profound influence on Western philosophy, with notable admirers including Marcus Aurelius and Jean-Jacques Rousseau. Despite the controversy surrounding the accuracy of his teachings as recorded by his student Arrian, Epictetus' Discourses and Enchiridion remain essential reading for anyone interested in Stoic philosophy. As we look to the future, Epictetus' ideas about the importance of resilience, self-control, and inner strength are more relevant than ever, with many contemporary thinkers drawing on his work to inform their own perspectives on how to live a good life.