# LXXXVI explained — Short Works

> Chapter companion for Short Works by Epictetus.

## 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.

## Character check-ins

### Epictetus

The speaker, offering direct advice on maintaining purpose against external pressure.

## Key lines

> 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._

## Links

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