How to Be Free

An Ancient Guide to the Stoic Life

By: Epictetus, Anthony Long - Introduction, Anthony Long - Translator

Narrated by: Shaun Grindell

Born a slave, the Roman Stoic philosopher Epictetus (c. 55-135 AD) taught that mental freedom is supreme, since it can liberate one anywhere, even in a prison. In How to Be Free, A. A. Long - one of the world's leading authorities on Stoicism and a pioneer in its remarkable contemporary revival - provides a superb new edition of Epictetus's celebrated guide to the Stoic philosophy of life (the Encheiridion) along with a selection of related reflections in his Discourses.

Freedom, for Epictetus, is not a human right or a political prerogative but a psychological and ethical achievement, a gift that we alone can bestow on ourselves. We can all be free, but only if we learn to assign paramount value to what we can control (our motivations and reactions), treat what we cannot control with equanimity, and view our circumstances as opportunities to do well and be well, no matter what happens to us through misfortune or the actions of other people.

How to Be Free features splendid new translations and a compelling introduction that sets Epictetus in context and describes the importance of Stoic freedom today. The result is an unmatched introduction to this powerful method of managing emotions and handling life's situations, from the most ordinary to the most demanding.

©2018 Princeton University Press (P)2018 HighBridge, a division of Recorded Books

Acceptance of the things that you can’t control

I love this narrative of how to accept that one has no control of . Especially about death

Jacob

This book is great for meditation and a mental reset always be thankful for what god has given.

Salient Stoicism

Invoked thought and lengthy conversations. Took some modern interpretation but it was never a big reach.

Enjoyed

Easy to listen to. can enjoy over and over again. It's Very thought provoking.

Return to the basics

This translation of Epictetus’ works is familiar yet new and different. I have previously read the Penguin Classics translation of the Encheiridion and Discourses. Reading “How to be Free” and listening to the audible version of it was like visiting with a favorite teacher or mentor and getting new insight and understanding into subjects we have previously discussed. Epictetus’ messages are simple and direct. They get attention, make me think, provide comfort, and are universal – they apply to all aspects of life.

Listening to the audible version enhances my experience with this book.