About This Book

The Handbook (The Encheiridion) by Epictetus

The Handbook, also known as The Encheiridion, is a timeless guide to Stoic philosophy written by Epictetus. This compact book, consisting of just 29 pages, distills the essence of Stoic thought into practical advice that remains relevant today. Epictetus, a former slave who became a prominent philosopher, emphasizes the importance of living in accordance with nature and focusing on what is within one's control.

Who Uses It?

Primarily, this book is used by students and educators in philosophy classes, particularly those focusing on Stoicism and ancient Greek philosophy. It is also a valuable resource for anyone interested in understanding the principles of Stoicism, including professionals looking to apply these timeless insights in their personal and professional lives.

History and Editions

The Handbook has been in print since 1983, when Hackett Publishing Company, Inc. first released it. This edition has been widely used and appreciated for its concise yet profound insights into Stoic philosophy. The book's enduring popularity stems from its practical advice and the clarity with which Epictetus presents complex philosophical concepts.

Author and Other Works

Epictetus is the author of The Handbook. While he did not write any other books in the classical sense, his teachings and writings have had a profound impact on Western philosophy. His student, Arrian, compiled and edited his teachings into several works, including the Discourses and Enchiridion (The Handbook). Nicholas P. White, a renowned philosopher and translator, has also contributed to the translation and interpretation of Epictetus' works.

Key Features

Concise yet Comprehensive: The Handbook provides a brief yet comprehensive overview of Stoic philosophy, making it an excellent introduction for beginners.
Practical Advice: The book offers practical advice on how to live a virtuous life, focusing on what is within one's control and avoiding external influences.
Timeless Insights: Despite being written over two millennia ago, The Handbook remains relevant today, offering insights that can be applied in modern life.

Detailed Information

ISBNs and Formats

ISBN-13: 9780915145690
ISBN-10: 0915145693
Edition: Later Printing Used
Publication Date: 1983
Publisher: Hackett Publishing Company, Inc.
Binding: Paperback
Language: English, Greek (translation)
Number of Pages: 35

Other Editions and Formats

While there are no other editions or formats specifically mentioned for this book, it is available in various used and new conditions through retailers like AbeBooks, Biblio, and BooksRun.

Related ISBNs:

9780915145690 (This ISBN is for the paperback edition)
0915145693 (This ISBN is for the paperback edition)

Publication Details

Publisher: Hackett Publishing Company, Inc.
Publication Date: 1983
Number of Pages: 35

Additional Resources:

For those interested in further exploring Stoicism, other notable works include:

Discourses by Epictetus: A collection of his teachings compiled by Arrian.
Meditations by Marcus Aurelius: A personal reflection on Stoic philosophy by the Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius.

This detailed information section provides a quick reference for all the available formats and sources for The Handbook (The Encheiridion), making it easier to find and access the book in the preferred format.