# CVII explained — Short Works

> Chapter companion for Short Works by Epictetus.

## What happens

The chapter contrasts admonition and reproach, advocating for the former as a superior method of correction due to its mild, friendly, and effective nature, while condemning the latter as harsh and merely accusatory.

## Themes in this chapter

### Practical Ethics and Self-Discipline

Offers a practical guideline for interpersonal conduct, focusing on effective self-discipline in social interactions.

### Social Duty and Relationship

Addresses the duty to correct others, emphasizing a method that preserves social bonds and aims at genuine improvement.

## Character check-ins

### Epictetus

The author, providing direct instruction on the proper and improper ways to address the faults of others.

## Key lines

> To admonish is better than to reproach: for admonition is mild and friendly, but reproach is harsh and insulting; and admonition corrects those who are doing wrong, but reproach only convicts them.

Gently advising someone is more effective and kinder than harshly blaming them. Advice aims to fix the problem, while blame just points it out.

_Core argument of the chapter, establishing a clear ethical preference in communication._

## Links

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