Handbook of Epictetus (Enchiridion) | Study Guide

With these short lessons and bits of guidance, Epictetus gives readers a brief rule book to guide them in conducting their lives appropriately. The Enchiridion is a condensed version of Epictetus's longer Discourses (c. 108 CE; comprising eight books, four of which are extant). That work contains philosophical demonstrations and explanations that he did not think were appropriate to discuss among common people. Thus, the Enchiridion serves as an overview of Epictetus's Stoicism that is accessible to any reader troubled by difficult life challenges. Stoicism is a Greek and Roman philosophy that advocates for the value of reason and virtue above passion or desire.