Philosophy 103
Study questions: Encheiridion,
Sections 31-53
1. What attitude does Epictetus suggest we take toward bodily
pleasures and material goods?
[What role does he suggest that these
'goods' will have in the life of a stoic?]
2. In these later sections, Epictetus provides guidance for how
one ought to behave in a variety
of situations. Taking all of this
guidance together, how would you characterize Epictetus'
view of the way in which a person
should conduct him or herself? Given his discussion, what
are the main character traits (virtues)
that a good person will possess?
3. Given your understanding of stoicism thus far, what potential
problems do you see with its
answer to the question, "How should we
live?" To what extent do you think it is a plausible
answer to the question, and how would
you explain and defend your view?