Summary

In exploring the enduring philosophy of Epictetus, William O. Stephens presents a nuanced guide to the Stoic conception of ethics, focusing on the relationship between happiness and freedom. The book meticulously unpacks how Epictetus, a former slave turned influential philosopher, grounded his teachings in the pursuit of eudaimonia—well-being or flourishing—through the cultivation of inner freedom. Stephens bridges ancient wisdom with contemporary relevance, inviting readers to examine how self-mastery, rationality, and the acceptance of fate contribute to an unshakeable tranquility in the face of life's uncertainties.