# CXXXI explained — Short Works

> Chapter companion for Short Works by Epictetus.

## What happens

Epictetus argues that a wise person should not avoid public office, as it is both a duty to be useful to others and a failure to cede governance to the unworthy.

## Themes in this chapter

### Social Duty and Relationship

Central theme: The wise man's obligation to serve the community through public office, framed as a pious and noble duty.

## Character check-ins

### Epictetus

The author and speaker, presenting the core argument on civic duty.

## Key lines

> Let no wise man be averse to undertaking the office of a magistrate... for it is both impious for a man to withdraw himself from being useful to those who have need of our services, and it is ignoble to give way to the worthless.

A wise person should not refuse a leadership role. It is wrong to avoid helping those who need it, and it is dishonorable to let inferior people take charge.

_Emphasizes the dual rationale: piety (duty to others) and nobility (preventing poor governance)._

## Links

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