Short Works · Chapter
Some Fragments of Epictetus Omitted by Upton and by Meibomius explained
A collection of fragments and sayings attributed to Epictetus, covering core Stoic principles: the distinction between what is in our power (the use of appearances) and what is not, the definition of true wealth as contentment, the importan
What happens
A collection of fragments and sayings attributed to Epictetus, covering core Stoic principles: the distinction between what is in our power (the use of appearances) and what is not, the definition of true wealth as contentment, the importance of self-knowledge, and the proper management of desires and aversions. It includes anecdotes about Socrates and a critique of unnecessary philosophical speculation.
Themes in this chapter
Dichotomy of Control
Explicitly defined: God has placed 'the use of appearances' in our power (leading to virtue and happiness), and all else (children, country, body) outside it, to be entrusted to the universe.
Moderation and Simplicity
Wealth is defined as being content and sufficient with what one has, exemplified by Socrates's refusal of riches and simple hospitality.
Practical Ethics and Self-Discipline
Focus on the 'art' of managing assent, desires, and aversions according to the worth of things, rejecting speculative 'things above us' in favor of administering life's affairs.
Characters to notice
- Epictetus
The primary speaker and philosopher throughout the fragments, delivering core teachings on the use of appearances, contentment, and the art of assent.
- Socrates
Cited in two fragments: one for his indifference to lavish preparations for friends, and another for his refusal of King Archelaus's wealth, demonstrating self-sufficiency.
- Agrippinus
Not directly mentioned in these fragments.
- Polus
Mentioned as an actor who played both King Oedipus and beggar Oedipus equally well, serving as an example of performing well in any role given by the Deity.
- Oedipus
Referenced as the character played by Polus, illustrating the Stoic ideal of accepting and performing well any 'personage' imposed by fate.
- The Gods
Referenced as the source of the division of what is and is not in our power, and as the imposer of roles we must perform well.
Key passages
“In our own power he has placed that which is the best and the most important... the use of appearances.”
Our true power and path to happiness lies solely in how we judge and respond to our impressions, not in external events.
Foundational statement of the Stoic dichotomy of control.
“Epictetus being asked, What man is rich, answered, He who is content (who has enough).”
True wealth is not an abundance of possessions but a state of sufficiency and satisfaction with what one has.
Stoic definition of wealth as an internal condition.
“You are a little soul carrying a dead body, as Epictetus said.”
The human being is essentially a rational soul (the true self) temporarily inhabiting and directing a mortal, physical body.
A vivid metaphor for the mind-body distinction and the primacy of the soul.
“What do I care, he says, whether all things are composed of atoms... or of fire and earth?”
Speculative physics is irrelevant compared to the practical knowledge of good and evil and the measures of our desires.
Emphasizes the primacy of ethics over metaphysical speculation in practical philosophy.
