The Unforeseen Achievement: Turning the Implausible into Reality
In the annals of history, few figures have transcended their circumstances as profoundly as Epictetus. Born a slave, he rose to become one of the most influential philosophers of all time, shaping the lives of countless individuals, including the mighty Roman Emperor, Marcus Aurelius.
Epictetus' core philosophy was rooted in the belief that while many external events are beyond our control, individuals can always control their reactions and attitudes towards these events. His teachings emphasised acceptance of divine providence and resilience in the face of hardship, advocating that true happiness and virtue come from mastering oneself rather than external circumstances.
Marcus Aurelius, during his education and apprenticeship under Emperor Antoninus Pius, embraced Stoicism deeply. He delved into the *Discourses* of Epictetus, which became central to his intellectual and spiritual nourishment. Marcus's famous work, the *Meditations*, written mainly during military campaigns, reflects a personal pursuit of Stoic ideals, constantly examining his motives and striving for moral improvement. These writings echo Epictetus’s ideas about accepting fate, focusing on inner virtue, and maintaining equanimity amidst the challenges of ruling a vast empire.
As emperor, Marcus Aurelius applied Stoic philosophy practically, using Epictetus’s teachings to govern with a sense of duty, humility, and resilience. Despite facing relentless external pressures like wars and plague, he remained committed to the Stoic practice of self-control, duty, and rationality, embodying the Stoic ideal of the philosopher-king. Epictetus’s influence helped Marcus maintain philosophical clarity and ethical leadership amid the burdens of emperorship.
This July, Epictetus Month is being celebrated at a certain platform, where they will be exploring Epictetus' Discourses and teaching readers how to apply his wisdom to their lives. The How To Read Epictetus guide, a combination of a book club, masterclass, and daily practice, is available to help readers not just read the words of Epictetus but live them and make real changes in their lives.
The guide, which can be purchased on the platform's website alongside the Penguin Classics edition of Epictetus' Discourses, is designed to help readers rise above temptation, live more deliberately, and focus only on improving what is up to us-and letting go of the rest. If you get the guide before July 26th, you'll receive a private invitation to an exclusive LIVE Q&A with Ryan Holiday.
Moreover, a 25% discount is available when you bundle the book and the How To Read Epictetus guide during Epictetus Month. The Penguin Classics edition of Epictetus' Discourses is recommended as the most accessible translation for modern readers, providing an opportunity for a new generation to connect with Epictetus' timeless wisdom.
Epictetus' teachings were sought after by the most powerful Romans, including Emperor Hadrian and countless Roman families. His Discourses, the book that changed Marcus Aurelius' life, is recommended for readers to dive into, offering insights that continue to resonate today.
In essence, Epictetus' philosophy provided Marcus Aurelius with the intellectual foundation and moral framework that deeply shaped his leadership style and personal conduct as emperor. The How To Read Epictetus guide offers modern readers an opportunity to follow in the footsteps of Marcus Aurelius, applying Epictetus' teachings to their own lives and striving for a more deliberate, virtuous existence.
Books like Epictetus' Discourses fall under the category of education-and-self-development, and they serve as a valuable resource for personal-growth enthusiasts seeking guidance on how to navigate difficult circumstances with resilience. In July, readers can dive into Epictetus' work, and with the help of the How To Read Epictetus guide, they can apply his wisdom to achieve entertaining, educational, and transformative self-improvement.
