How to Be Free: An Ancient Guide to the Stoic Life (Ancient Wisdom for Modern Readers)

This is a great book of wisdom. It is the enchiriodon and the discourses of Epictetus in an an easy to read translation

Prof Long's translation is just unsurpassable

This translation of Epictetus’ works is familiar yet new and different. I have previously read the Penguin Classics translation of the Encheiridion and Discourses. Reading “How to be Free” and listening to the audible version of it was like visiting with a favorite teacher or mentor and getting new insight and understanding into subjects we have previously discussed. Epictetus’ messages are simple and direct. They get attention, make me think, provide comfort, and are universal – they apply to all aspects of life.

This is an excellent little book. Long's translation of the Enchiridion and excerpts from the Discourses into modern standard English is clear and compelling--just as Epictetus would have it, no doubt. Of nearly equal value is the author's introduction to the text, which serves as a very good primer on important Stoic themes in light of Epictetus's work and specific approach. And now, a wish: I would really like to see a new translation by Professor Long of the entire Discourses, published in a quality hardcover edition, similar to the University of Chicago Press editions of Seneca's work, with which Long was involved. Here's hoping!

Changed my life.

I have an old copy of the Enchiridion that this replaces. A.A. Long adds valuable context and a wonderful translation. I was so pleased that I purchased a copy for a friend, who similarly enjoyed it. I plan to go back to this handbook time and again.

The text itself is brilliant, with sage advice on detachment. However, Shaun Grindell's rendering of the text for Audible takes all the life out of it.

Most people would rather look at youtube influencers than A BOOK that provides great answers to life smh

I think the author got greedy or took a week long book reading challenge. The book is a copy of William Abbott Oldfather version. I still wonder why at first place he wrote this book and then charging readers a premium. Stoics died but modern day writers like the author are making money from it. Yikes ...

I had a mental breakdown a few years ago, stress, anxiety etc. This book has reset my thinking and it’s been a god send. I’m not saying it’s a cure and it doesn’t fix everything but it’s a start and personally help me. Let go of the things you can’t control and focus on the things you can.

it is quite hard to find literature from original stoic thinkers, even more so the good translations of the classics. This book does just that, it explains the philosophy from one of the greatest stoics, Epicteus. A must have in anyone's collection of books on Stoicism.

I've read a little of secondary literature on Epictetus and only now have begun a read of the great works themselves. Long provides an accessible translation for the beginner. I'm going to keep this version of the Enchiridion handy for reference.

Interesting