Short Works · Chapter
Endnotes explained
A collection of editorial notes, commentary, and textual analysis on the Enchiridion, referencing translations, manuscript variations, and interpretations of Stoic concepts by scholars like Schweighaeuser, Upton, and Simplicius.
What happens
A collection of editorial notes, commentary, and textual analysis on the Enchiridion, referencing translations, manuscript variations, and interpretations of Stoic concepts by scholars like Schweighaeuser, Upton, and Simplicius.
Free preview opens on this chapter — companions, themes, and character notes appear beside the text.
Narrative arc
Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Resolution.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
This moment is the emotional and philosophical peak where Epictetus forces the reader into a crisis of choice,…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Dichotomy of Control
Reiterated through commentary on not being disturbed by others (e.g., slaves) and focusing on what is in one's own power.
- Virtue as the Only Good
Implied in discussions where external things like wealth and social status are classified as 'indifferent'.
- Reason as Guide and Consolation
Highlighted through analysis of using reason to judge appearances and understand divine purpose.
Characters to notice
- Epictetus
Author of the Enchiridion; his teachings and potential textual errors are discussed.
- Simplicius
Sixth-century commentator cited for explanations of Epictetus's text and concepts.
- Chrysippus
Stoic philosopher mentioned in relation to his teacher Cleanthes.
- Socrates
Quoted from Plato's 'Crito' and 'Apology' in the commentary.
- Lycurgus
Mentioned as being called a 'god' by the Delphic oracle.
- M. Antoninus
Referenced for a parallel teaching on sympathy.
- The Gods
Discussed in the context of piety, divine will, and the nature of events.
Key passages
“"How hardly shall they that have riches enter the kingdom of God."”
Riches pose a spiritual danger, a truth observable in life.
Editorial note comparing the Gospel of Mark to the Stoic view of wealth as indifferent.
“"the man who places the good and the evil among the things which are in our power, and not in externals, will neither be compelled by any man nor ever injured."”
True freedom and security come from judging only your own choices as good or evil, not external events.
Commentary from Simplicius summarizing the core Stoic teaching of the Enchiridion.
“"Do not chastise your slave while you are in a passion, lest, while you are trying to correct him... you fall into a vice which is a man’s great and only calamity."”
Correcting another in anger risks you succumbing to the greater vice of passion.
Schweighaeuser's explanation of a passage on self-control and practical ethics.
