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Chapter companions for Discourses by Epictetus.

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Chapter 1
Discourses
A collection of Epictetus's teachings on Stoic philosophy, emphasizing the distinction between what is within our control and what is not, and the importance of rationality, self-examination, and acceptance of divine providence.
Chapter 2
Book I
Epictetus discusses the nature of self-regard and its compatibility with social duty, emphasizing that rational beings naturally contribute to the common interest while pursuing their own. He explores reason's capacity for self-examination, the proper use of appearances, and the importance of focusing only on what is within our power. The chapter includes critiques of valuing externals like political titles or wealth, and addresses anger, piety, and acceptance of divine providence.
Chapter 3
Of the Things Which Are in Our Power, and Not in Our Power
Epictetus introduces the foundational Stoic distinction between what is within our power (the right use of appearances, desire, aversion, pursuit, avoidance) and what is not (body, property, reputation, office). He argues that only the rational faculty can examine itself and all other faculties, and that the gods have placed this alone under our control. Using examples from Lateranus, Agrippinus, and Thrasea, he illustrates how to face death, exile, and chains with cheerfulness and contentment, because the will cannot be overpowered even by Zeus.
Chapter 4
II: How a Man on Every Occasion Can Maintain His Proper Character
Epictetus discusses how rational beings are pained by the irrational and attracted to the rational, emphasizing the need to adapt preconceptions of rational and irrational to nature. He uses examples of Agrippinus and Florus regarding Nero's spectacles, Priscus Helvidius defying Vespasian, and an athlete choosing death over amputation to illustrate maintaining one's proper character. The chapter concludes with the importance of self-discipline and knowing one's own worth.
Chapter 5
How a Man Should Proceed from the Principle of God Being the Father of All Men to the Rest
This chapter argues that recognizing God as the father of all men elevates one's self-conception, preventing ignoble thoughts. It contrasts those who identify with their divine reason and intelligence (common with the gods) with those who cling to their mortal, animal-like body, leading to base behaviors such as faithlessness, savagery, or malice.

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Discourses

Book I

Of the Things Which Are in Our Power, and Not in Our Power

II: How a Man on Every Occasion Can Maintain His Proper Character

How a Man Should Proceed from the Principle of God Being the Father of All Men to the Rest