Short Works · Chapter
LXXXVI explained
Epictetus advises maintaining one's purpose and inner resolve, drawing a parallel between resisting the unreasonable demands of a multitude and not being swayed by an unjust rabble.
What happens
Epictetus advises maintaining one's purpose and inner resolve, drawing a parallel between resisting the unreasonable demands of a multitude and not being swayed by an unjust rabble.
Themes in this chapter
Dichotomy of Control
Focuses on maintaining control over one's own purpose and judgment, not being moved by the unjust or unreasonable demands of others (an external).
Inner Freedom and Slavery
Highlights the freedom found in steadfastness to one's own reasoned purpose, resisting enslavement to the opinions or pressures of the crowd.
Characters to notice
- Epictetus
The speaker, offering direct advice on maintaining purpose against external pressure.
Key passages
“As a multitude, when they without reason demand of you anything of your own, do not disconcert you, so do not be moved from your purpose even by a rabble when they unjustly attempt to move you.”
Just as you shouldn't be troubled by a crowd's unreasonable demands for your possessions, don't let an unjust mob sway you from your chosen course.
Emphasizes consistency in inner fortitude against all forms of external, unjust pressure.