The Golden Sayings of Epictetus, with the Hymn of Cleanthes

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

871

Title

The Golden Sayings of Epictetus, with the Hymn of Cleanthes

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

A timeless collection of Stoic wisdom from Epictetus, translated by Hastings Crossley. This volume presents the 'Golden Sayings' alongside Cleanthes' hymn, offering profound guidance on mastering the self, distinguishing between what is within our control and what is not, and living in harmony with nature and the divine. Its direct, aphoristic style appeals to readers seeking resilience, ethical clarity, and inner peace in a chaotic world.

Summary up to 500 words

The Golden Sayings of Epictetus, compiled and arranged by Hastings Crossley, presents the profound Stoic philosophy of a former slave turned teacher. The work is structured into 129 chapters containing concise maxims and dialogues, alongside an appendix of fragments and the 'Hymn of Cleanthes.' Central to Epictetus's argument is the distinction between what is within our control and what is not. He asserts that while the body, reputation, wealth, and external circumstances are not truly ours, our faculty of choice—the power to desire, decline, pursue, and avoid—is a divine gift that must be guarded. True freedom, therefore, lies not in altering external events but in controlling one's own judgments and will. Epictetus urges readers to transcend petty social distinctions, viewing themselves as citizens of the world and children of God. He emphasizes endurance ('bear') and restraint ('forbear') as the keys to a tranquil life. The text warns against the corruption of the soul by bad company and the insatiable nature of desire, using the metaphor of a lamp that can be lost but whose value lies in its use. He compares the human condition to a traveler who must not become captivated by a fair inn on the way but must continue toward their true destination. The volume concludes with the 'Hymn of Cleanthes,' a poetic invocation praising the divine order of the universe and the harmony of nature. It contrasts the folly of those who ignore reason with the wisdom of those who recognize the Divine Power. The tone is stern yet compassionate, urging the reader to prepare for death with dignity, having used their faculties to their fullest potential without blaming the gods for life's trials. The work serves as a guide to living in harmony with nature, finding peace through reason, and maintaining an unshakeable inner citadel regardless of external turmoil.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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Categories

• Classics
• Philosophy