Epictetus

Epictetus, a prominent Greek Stoic philosopher, was born in the year fifty in Hierapolis, Phrygia, which is now known as Pamukkale in western Turkey. His early life was marked by the harsh realities of slavery, but this did not deter him from pursuing knowledge and wisdom. After gaining his freedom, he moved to Rome, where he studied Stoic philosophy under the esteemed Musonius Rufus.

Following his manumission, Epictetus dedicated himself to teaching philosophy, emphasizing that it is a practical way of life rather than merely a theoretical pursuit. His teachings resonated deeply with his students, as he advocated for the acceptance of external events beyond our control while stressing the importance of personal responsibility and self-discipline in one's actions.

In the late first century, Emperor Domitian's decree banished philosophers from Rome, prompting Epictetus to establish a school in Nicopolis, northwestern Greece. There, he continued to impart his philosophical insights, which were later documented by his pupil Arrian in the works known as the Discourses and Enchiridion. His profound influence extended to many notable thinkers throughout history, including Marcus Aurelius, Pascal, Diderot, Montesquieu, Rabelais, and Samuel Johnson.