Slave and Sage: Remarks on the Stoic Handbook of Epictetus
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- USD 9.99
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- USD 9.99
Descripción editorial
'Epictetus Handbook is the best extant account of ancient Stoicism, and it still ranks as one of the most useful self-help manuals in today’s world. Through relatable contemporary applications and accessible explanations, Dr. Ferraiolo guides the reader reliably through all of the sayings in the Handbook to bring out their core meaning, which can be obscured by references to ancient social customs, events and philosophers.' Lou Matz, Professor of Philosophy, University of the Pacific
In Slave and Sage William Ferraiolo distills and reanimates the original spirit of Epictetus’ Enchiridion for a 21st century audience, and shows how the lessons Epictetus offered are more relevant than ever to modern life. Much like the original stoics, Ferraiolo's work prides itself on a combination of erudition and accessibility, to teach and counsel every reader. "This little gem of philosophical insight will help you dig down into the best wisdom of the ancient Stoic philosopher, Epictetus, and see how it can apply powerfully in our lives today. Highly recommended." Tom Morris, author of The Stoic Art of Living
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY
In this light if clarifying work, Ferraiolo (Meditations on Self-Discipline and Failure), former professor of philosophy at San Joaquin Delta College in Stockton, Calif., comments on a classic Greek Stoic text. The Enchiridion of Epictetus (the author was a Greek slave and philosopher) is one of the founding texts of Stoicism, Ferraiolo writes; it lays out precepts for concerning oneself only with the things one can control by focusing on reason and logic, and has influenced such thinkers as Marcus Aurelius, Adam Smith, and Benjamin Franklin. Using an 18th-century English translation, the author provides short commentary on key passages and ties Epictetus's wisdom to modern situations. For example, where Epictetus refers to giving oneself up to a master, Ferraiolo chooses the contemporary analog of following a fitness trainer's advice. Where Epictetus sees two paths in life ("be either a philosopher, or one of the vulgar"), Ferraiolo compares this to the "adolescent who wants to become a veterinarian because she likes dogs and horses," but cannot commit to rigorous study. While these examples are occasionally helpful, the original text isn't particularly difficult—even in an older translation—and most of Ferraiolo's commentary simply restates Epictetus's original advice with little additional insight. Though the author's embellishments occasionally pay off, most readers would be better served by simply reading the original work.
