# Chapter XXI explained — Short Works

> Chapter companion for Short Works by Epictetus.

## 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.

## Character check-ins

### Epictetus

The speaker, delivering direct, imperative advice to the student on a core mental discipline.

## Key lines

> 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._

## Links

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