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Chapter LXVII explained

Epictetus recounts the story of Lycurgus, who, after being maimed by a citizen, chose to educate and reform the young man rather than seek revenge, transforming him into a good citizen.

What happens

Epictetus recounts the story of Lycurgus, who, after being maimed by a citizen, chose to educate and reform the young man rather than seek revenge, transforming him into a good citizen.

Themes in this chapter

  • Social Duty and Relationship

    Lycurgus prioritizes the improvement and reintegration of a fellow citizen for the good of the community over personal vengeance.

  • Practical Ethics and Self-Discipline

    The story exemplifies the practical application of Stoic ethics—using reason to respond to injury with constructive education rather than passion-driven punishment.

Characters to notice

  • Lycurgus

    Demonstrates forgiveness and social duty by reforming the citizen who maimed him, rather than punishing him.

  • Epictetus

    Narrates the anecdote as an exemplary model of philosophical conduct.

Key passages

  • “I received from you this youth when he was insolent and violent: I restore him to you gentle and a good citizen.”

    Lycurgus tells the people he took a violent youth and returned him reformed and virtuous.

    Highlights the transformative power of education and forgiveness over retribution.

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