# Short Works — Character guide

> Key figures in Short Works by Epictetus.

- [Epictetus](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/epictetus_short_works_se/characters/epictetus.md): The Stoic philosopher and narrator of the Discourses, whose teachings form the core of the book.
- [Socrates](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/epictetus_short_works_se/characters/socrates.md): Classical Greek philosopher frequently cited by Epictetus as a model of virtue and wisdom.
- [Lycurgus](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/epictetus_short_works_se/characters/lycurgus.md): Legendary lawgiver of Sparta, referenced as an example of discipline and law.
- [Agrippinus](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/epictetus_short_works_se/characters/agrippinus.md): A contemporary Stoic philosopher admired by Epictetus for his character and resolve.
- [Chrysippus](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/epictetus_short_works_se/characters/chrysippus.md): Influential Stoic philosopher whose works are often referenced in the discussions.
- [Plato](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/epictetus_short_works_se/characters/plato.md): Ancient Greek philosopher, mentioned in the context of philosophical ideas and dialogues.
- [Archimedes](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/epictetus_short_works_se/characters/archimedes.md): Ancient Greek mathematician and inventor, cited as an example of focused expertise.
- [Simplicius](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/epictetus_short_works_se/characters/simplicius.md): Later commentator on Epictetus, referenced in the editorial notes of this edition.
- [Nicias](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/epictetus_short_works_se/characters/nicias.md): Athenian general referenced in a historical or moral example.
- [M. Antoninus](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/epictetus_short_works_se/characters/antoninus.md): Likely refers to Marcus Aurelius Antoninus, the Roman Emperor and Stoic philosopher.
- [Polus](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/epictetus_short_works_se/characters/polus.md): A character from Plato's Gorgias, referenced in a philosophical argument.
- [Oedipus](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/epictetus_short_works_se/characters/oedipus.md): Mythological king of Thebes, used as an example of fate and suffering.
- [The Gods](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/epictetus_short_works_se/characters/the_gods.md): Divine beings central to Stoic theology and frequently invoked by Epictetus.

HTML index: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/epictetus_short_works_se/characters