Epictetus's Discourses

What is the main principle of Stoicism?

• Always seek external validation

• Pursue material wealth above all else

• Focus on what is within our control and accept what is not within our control.

• Ignore everything outside of your control

How did Epictetus view external events and circumstances?

• Epictetus believed external events and circumstances could be controlled

• Epictetus thought external events and circumstances were irrelevant

• Epictetus considered external events and circumstances as predictable

• Epictetus viewed external events and circumstances as beyond our control.

According to Epictetus, what is within our control?

• Our own thoughts, actions, and attitudes

• Other people's opinions

• The weather

• The outcome of events

What is the role of reason in Stoicism?

• Reason leads to chaos and irrational decisions in Stoicism.

• Reason guides individuals to live in accordance with nature, make rational decisions, and cultivate virtue.

• Stoicism disregards reason and focuses solely on emotions.

• In Stoicism, reason is used to promote vice and unethical behavior.

How did Epictetus teach his students to deal with adversity?

• By ignoring the problem and hoping it goes away

• By blaming others for their misfortunes

• By focusing on what is within their control, accepting what is not, and maintaining a mindset of resilience and inner strength.

• By giving up and surrendering to fate

What is the concept of 'virtue' in Stoicism?

• The concept of 'virtue' in Stoicism refers to material possessions and wealth.

• The concept of 'virtue' in Stoicism refers to the pursuit of power and influence.

• The concept of 'virtue' in Stoicism refers to the four cardinal virtues: wisdom, courage, justice, and moderation.

• The concept of 'virtue' in Stoicism refers to the rejection of personal growth and self-improvement.

Explain the Stoic idea of 'living in accordance with nature'.

• Living in accordance with nature means living virtuously, being rational, and maintaining inner peace despite external circumstances.

• Living in accordance with nature means following every impulse without restraint.

• Living in accordance with nature means prioritizing material possessions over inner peace.

• Living in accordance with nature means being selfish and disregarding the well-being of others.

What is the significance of focusing on what is within our control?

• It leads to unnecessary stress and anxiety.

• It hinders personal growth and development.

• It limits creativity and innovation.

• It helps us prioritize and make effective decisions.

How does Epictetus suggest we should view death?

• View death as a natural and inevitable part of life.

• View death as a punishment

• View death as a reason to fear life

• View death as a sign of weakness

Discuss the Stoic practice of 'premeditatio malorum'.

• The Stoic practice of 'premeditatio malorum' involves ignoring potential challenges

• The Stoic practice of 'premeditatio malorum' involves focusing only on positive outcomes

• The Stoic practice of 'premeditatio malorum' involves contemplating or visualizing potential future adversities or misfortunes in order to mentally prepare oneself for them.

• The Stoic practice of 'premeditatio malorum' involves avoiding all forms of adversity