# CLXV explained — Short Works

> Chapter companion for Short Works by Epictetus.

## What happens

The chapter asserts that a proper understanding of human nature—its limitations, place in the universe, and dependence on external things—prevents disturbance when faced with life's inevitable events.

## Themes in this chapter

### Acceptance of Nature and Fate

The core instruction is to remember 'what man is'—a being subject to fate and external events—to accept what happens without trouble.

### Reason as Guide and Consolation

Tranquility is achieved through the rational understanding and remembrance of human nature, using reason as a guide to correct judgment.

## Character check-ins

### Epictetus

The author of the teaching, advising on the correct perspective to achieve tranquility.

## Key lines

> He who bears in mind what man is will never be troubled at anything which happens.

If you constantly remember the true, limited nature of a human being, you will remain undisturbed by any event.

_This is the central, singular maxim of the chapter, encapsulating the Stoic remedy for perturbation._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/epictetus_short_works_se/chapters/clxv
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/epictetus_short_works_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/epictetus_short_works_se/chapters