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Short Works · Chapter
CLXII explained
The chapter advises using reason as a remedy for misfortune, comparing it to calling upon a good physician for aid.
What happens
The chapter advises using reason as a remedy for misfortune, comparing it to calling upon a good physician for aid.
Themes in this chapter
Reason as Guide and Consolation
Reason is explicitly prescribed as the therapeutic tool to apply against misfortune, acting as a healing guide.
Characters to notice
- Epictetus
The author of the advice, prescribing reason as the cure for misfortune.
Key passages
“We ought to call in reason like a good physician as a help in misfortune.”
When faced with hardship, we should summon our rational faculty to heal us, just as we would seek a skilled doctor.
Direct metaphor equating reason with medical intervention.