# LXXXV explained — Short Works

> Chapter companion for Short Works by Epictetus.

## What happens

Epictetus advises the student to remain undisturbed by the irrational noise and opinions of the crowd, using the analogy of animals that are not frightened by the harmless sounds of other species.

## Themes in this chapter

### Inner Freedom and Slavery

The chapter focuses on maintaining inner tranquility and freedom from perturbation by disregarding external, irrational clamor.

## Character check-ins

### Epictetus

The teacher delivering the core advice, urging resilience against public opinion.

## Key lines

> As a goose is not frightened by cackling nor a sheep by bleating, so let not the clamour of a senseless multitude alarm you.

Just as animals ignore the harmless noises of other creatures, you should not let the loud, foolish opinions of the crowd disturb your peace.

_A direct analogy emphasizing emotional resilience and the irrationality of fearing mere opinion._

## Links

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