All the Works of Epictetus · 2 of 100

Preface: Arrian to Lucius Gellius

I Neither composed the Discourses of Epictetus in such a manner, as Things of this Nature are commonly composed: nor did I myself produce them to public View, any more than I composed them. But whatever Sentiments I heard from his own Mouth, the very same I endeavoured to set down in the very same Words, as far as possible, and preserve as Memorials for my own Use, of his Manner of Thinking, and Freedom of Speech.

These Discourses are such as one Person would naturally deliver from his own Thoughts, extempore, to another; not such as he would prepare to be read by Numbers afterwards. Yet, notwithstanding this, I cannot tell how, without either my Consent or Knowledge, they have fallen into the Hands of the Public. But it is of little Consequence to me, if I do not appear an able Writer; and of none to Epictetus, if any one treats his Discourses with Contempt; since it was very evident, even when he uttered them, that he aimed at nothing more than to excite his Hearers to Virtue. If they produce that one Effect, they have in them what, I think, philosophical Discourses ought to have. And Should they fail of it, let the Readers, however, be assured, that when Epictetus himself pronounced them, his Audience could not help being affected in the very Manner he intended they should. If by themselves they have less Efficacy, perhaps it is my Fault, or perhaps it is unavoidable.

Farewell.