All the Works of Epictetus · 66 of 100

Book III, Chapter 8

1. In the same manner, as we exercise ourselves, against sophistical Questions, we should exercise ourselves likewise, in relation to such Appearances, as every Day occur: for these too offer Questions to us. —— Such a one's Son is dead. What do you think of it? Answer: it is independent on Choice: it is not an Evil. —— Such a one is disinherited by his Father. What do you think of it? It is independent on Choice: it is not an Evil. —— Cæsar hath condemned him. —— This is independent on Choice: it is not an Evil —— He hath been afflicted by it. —— This is dependent on Choice: it is an Evil. —— He hath supported it bravely. —— This is dependent on Choice: it is a Good.

2. If we accustom ourselves in this manner, we shall make an Improvement; for we shall never assent to any thing, but what the Appearance itself comprehends. A Son is dead. —— What hath happened? —— A Son is dead. —— Nothing more? —— Nothing. —— A Ship is lost. —— What hath happened? —— A Ship is lost. He is carried to Prison. —— What hath happened? —— He is carried to Prison. That he is unhappy, is an Addition, that every one makes of his own. —— "But Jupiter doth not order these Things right." —— Why so? Because he hath made you patient? Because he hath made you brave? Because he hath made them to be no Evils? Because it is permitted you, while you suffer them, to be happy? Because he hath opened you the Door, whenever they do not suit you? Go out, Man, and do not complain.

3. If you would know how the Romans treat Philosophers, hear. Italicus, esteemed one of the greatest Philosophers among them, being in a Pas sion with his own People, as if he had suffered some intolerable Evil, said once when I was by, "I cannot bear it; you are the Ruin of me; you will make me just like him;" pointing to me.