Epictetus

Epictetus was an influential Stoic philosopher born around 55 AD in Hierapolis, Phrygia, and later lived in Greece. Originally a slave in Rome, he gained his freedom and studied philosophy under Musonius Rufus. Epictetus founded a school in Nicopolis, where he taught practical ethics emphasizing personal freedom through self-discipline and rational thought. He believed in focusing on what is within one's control and accepting what is not. His teachings were recorded by his student, Arrian, in works like "The Discourses" and "The Enchiridion." Epictetus's insights on resilience and virtue continue to inspire those seeking wisdom and inner peace.