# Book II explained — Discourses

> Chapter companion for Discourses by Epictetus.

## What happens

Epictetus continues his discourses on Stoic philosophy, emphasizing the dichotomy of control, the importance of understanding what is truly good or bad, and the necessity of practical discipline. He uses examples from Socrates, Diogenes, and others to illustrate how one should remain indifferent to externals while acting with care and firmness. The chapter also discusses the role of God, the nature of the divine, and the need to learn and practice philosophy as a way of life.

## Themes in this chapter

### Dichotomy of Control

Epictetus emphasizes that good and bad lie only in what is within our power (our will and choices), not in externals like life, property, or reputation.

### Rationality and Self-Examination

The chapter stresses the need to understand names and concepts, and to examine one's own character and actions, as exemplified by Socrates and Diogenes.

### Philosophy as Practical Discipline

Philosophy is presented as a practical art that requires learning and practice, akin to carpentry or music, to achieve a life of virtue and tranquility.

## Character check-ins

### Socrates

Cited as a model of courage and indifference to externals, particularly in his trial and imprisonment.

### Diogenes

Mentioned for his practical wisdom in recommending himself through his character rather than letters, and for his confidence in speaking to tyrants.

### Epictetus

The primary speaker and teacher, delivering discourses on Stoic principles.

### Anytus

Referenced as one of Socrates' accusers in the context of Socrates' trial.

### Melitus

Referenced as one of Socrates' accusers in the context of Socrates' trial.

### Alexander the Great

Mentioned in relation to Diogenes' confidence in speaking to him.

## Key lines

> Anytus and Melitus can certainly kill me, but to harm me they are not able.

Socrates acknowledges that his accusers can end his life, but they cannot truly harm him because his virtue and character remain intact.

_This illustrates the Stoic principle that external events cannot harm the inner self._

> That you are a man, he will know as soon as he sees you; and he will know whether you are good or bad, if he is by experience skillful to distinguish the good and the bad; but if he is without experience, he will never know, if I write to him ten thousand times.

Diogenes tells someone that a person's character is self-evident to those with discernment, making letters of recommendation unnecessary.

_This emphasizes the importance of personal virtue over external credentials._

> We ought then in life also to have some skill as in the case of silver coin that a man may be able to say like the judge of silver, 'Bring me any drachma and I will test it.'

Just as a coin tester can assess any coin, we should develop the skill to judge character and actions in life.

_This highlights the need for practical wisdom and discernment._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/discourses_se/chapters/book-ii
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/discourses_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/discourses_se/chapters