Epictetus (c. 50 – c. 135 AD) was a renowned Greek Stoic philosopher who famously transitioned from a life born into slavery to becoming one of the ancient world’s most influential minds. His teachings form a pillar of modern Stoicism, emphasizing personal freedom, mental fortitude, and self-discipline. Because he wrote nothing down himself, his philosophy survives entirely through transcripts captured by his dedicated pupil, Arrian, in the Discourses and the Enchiridion (The Handbook)