Diatribai

work by Epictetus

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June 25, 2026

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The Diatribai, or Discourses, is a work by the Greek Stoic philosopher Epictetus. It was compiled by his pupil Arrian, who recorded Epictetus's teachings. The Discourses are a collection of lectures that focus on ethics and the pursuit of a tranquil mind through self-control and acceptance of external events.12

Epictetus taught that true education lies in recognizing that only one's will is fully within one's control. He emphasized that individuals are responsible for how they use their thoughts and must strive to align their will with nature and the divine order of the universe. The Discourses offer practical guidance on how to live a virtuous life, even amidst adversity.13

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Marcus Aurelius
Youth and apprenticeship
… declamation and eagerly embraced the Diatribai (Discourses) of a religious former slave, Epictetus, an important moral philosopher of the Stoic school. Henceforth, it was in philosophy that Marcus was to find his chief intellectual interest as well as his spiritual nourishment.
Read More
… declamation and eagerly embraced the Diatribai (Discourses) of a religious former slave, Epictetus, an important moral philosopher of the Stoic school. Henceforth, it was in philosophy that Marcus was to find his chief intellectual interest as well as his spiritual nourishment.
Read More