Epictetus

High school (ages 12+)
Philosophy & Big Questions

Name:

Date:

Step 1 · Read the article

Open the article and read it at the level above. Then answer the questions below in your own words.

https://smallwhale.org/articles/epictetus

Write what each word means, using the article.

Do not copy the article. Write two things you learned, the way you would explain them to a friend.

Answers below are taken from the article’s stored facts, so they match what the student read.

1. When was Epictetus born?Circa 50 AD
2. Where was Epictetus born?Hierapolis, Phrygia (modern-day Pamukkale, Turkey)
3. What is Epictetus known for?Stoic philosopher whose teachings emphasize self-control, virtue, and acceptance of external events
4. What is the major works recording teachings?Discourses and Enchiridion, compiled by his student Arrian
5. What was Epictetus's early life like?He was born a slave in Hierapolis around 50 AD. He learned philosophy and became free later in life.
6. How did Epictetus teach people to be happy?He said we should control our thoughts and accept what we cannot change. By focusing on what we can control, we become calm and strong.

Stoicism: A Hellenistic philosophy that teaches the development of self-control and fortitude as a means of overcoming destructive emotions.
Manumission: The formal act of a slave owner freeing his or her slave.
Dichotomy of Control: The Stoic principle differentiating between what is within our power and what is beyond our influence.
Inner Citadel: A metaphor for the mind's capacity for rational thought and self-control, providing resilience against external adversity.