Short Works · Chapter
Chapter XXI explained
Epictetus advises the student to keep the most dreadful prospects, especially death, constantly in mind.
What happens
Epictetus advises the student to keep the most dreadful prospects, especially death, constantly in mind. This daily contemplation is presented as a practical exercise to eradicate mean thoughts and curb extravagant desires, fostering a proper valuation of things.
Themes in this chapter
Dichotomy of Control
The exercise trains the mind to correctly classify death and exile as external events not under our control, thereby removing their power to disturb us.
Practical Ethics and Self-Discipline
Presents a specific, daily practice (premeditatio malorum) designed to cultivate virtue by reorienting desires and aversions away from externals.
Characters to notice
- Epictetus
The speaker, delivering direct, imperative advice to the student on a core mental discipline.
Key passages
“Let death and exile and every other thing which appears dreadful be daily before your eyes; but most of all death: and you will never think of anything mean nor will you desire anything extravagantly.”
Make a daily habit of contemplating the worst possible outcomes, particularly your own death. This practice will strip away petty concerns and excessive cravings.
A concise prescription for mental training through negative visualization to achieve equanimity.