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The Manual: A Philosopher's Guide to Life

Description:

Life's Missing Instruction Manual

Epictetus (c. 50-135 CE) was brought as a slave to Rome, where he became a great teacher, deeply influencing the future emperor Marcus Aurelius among many others. His philosophy, Stoicism, was practical, not theoretical--aimed at relieving human suffering here and now.

And Epictetus knew suffering. Besides being a former slave, he was lame in one leg and walked with a crutch. After a decade of teaching in Rome, he was banished by Emperor Domitian; undaunted, he established a school in Greece.

The Manualis a collection of Epictetus' essential teachings and pithy sayings, compiled by his closet student. It is the most accessible and actionable guide to Stoic philosophy, as relevant today as it was in the Roman Empire.

This new edition is rendered in contemporary English, with a foreword, by Sam Torode (based on a translation by Thomas Wentworth Higginson).

Note: A revised and further simplified edition of this book is now available, The Manual: 21st Century Edition (ISBN B09HFXHCNP). Read the sample pages of each translation to see which you prefer.


Editorial Reviews

Review

"Whenever I find myself slipping--not liking how I'm acting, thinking, or reacting--I reread The Manual. It's the simplest, most profound barely-60 pages I've come across. Read it again today. I needed it." --Jason Fried, founder & CEO at Basecamp (referencing this particular edition of The Manual on Twitter)

From the Back Cover

Quotes from The Manual

"If it is beyond your power to control, let it go."

"Do not wish that all things will go well with you, but that you will go well with all things."

"In this way, you will overcome life's challenges, rather than be overcome by them."

Reviews:

5.0 out of 5 stars "Philosophy is for living, not just learning."<br />(Epictetus.The Manual: A Philosophers Guide To Life.6

r.p. · January 6, 2025

Epictetus makes some good points about how to live.It is obvious he did not just sit around and make things up.He writes as an observing reader. Think it through then act or think it through then do not act. But never react.Pretty good read. Certainly not a waste of time if you are thinking.

5.0 out of 5 stars Should be required reading for all people.

D.M. · July 11, 2024

This is a great book with legitimate wisdom. It's simple principles that if you think about and implement in your everyday life things will go much smoother for you. It doesn't suggest taking all emotion out of your life, but it does suggest not allowing things that you have no control over to influence your emotions.

4.0 out of 5 stars Being Stoic doesn't mean what our society thinks it does

D.D. · July 30, 2020

After reading this book, I found the translator is absolutely correct: Stoicism is not what our culture takes it to be. It is not about being emotionless, it is about applying one's efforts in areas where we can actually accomplish something, most notably our internal reaction to worldly events. It is worth reading this book, just to get the definition correct.But, the book is more than a lesson in terminology. It is teaching us how to live. While reading this book, it became obvious to me that Stoicism has a lot in common with Buddhism's 4-Noble Truths and 8-Fold Path, as well as the Bhagavad Gita, Yoga, and even the Gospel of Matthew. I believe that Epictetus developed this work independently of these others, since he cites Socrates, not Buddha. But today, we live in a world where we have access to many spiritual traditions. And, I believe these other traditions go a lot further than Stoicism (at least based on this one book) toward helping us navigate our lives in the best way.Don't get me wrong. If one is just discovering the importance of our internal life, I think this book (and Stoicism) is a great place to start. But, I think it is just a start. It is great to move away from external satisfaction as a source of happiness. But, eventually, I believe, we all need to move to a tradition that gets beyond looking at our own, personal internal satisfaction as well. Ultimately Stoicism still seems a little selfish, just internally instead of externally. Or as Zen teaches us, don't focus on the tradition, focus on what the tradition is pointing toward (which isn't ourselves, neither external nor internal).

5.0 out of 5 stars Important book but not the first one you should buy

j. · November 30, 2018

If you are new to Stoicism, as I am, this is not the first book you want to get.The first books to read are the books about the general principles of Stoicism. There are quite a few out there.Then, when you are familiar with the simple, basic principles of Stoicism, this book fits in beautifully as does The Meditations of Marcus Aurelius.As a philosophy of life, Stoicism has changed my life. It makes so much sense. Especially, to let things go of which you have no control.I could go on and on, but I would not be a good Stoic I did.Put the principles into practice and you'll be better for it

5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent

d. · December 6, 2018

Excellent, concise guide for living. Great introduction to writings of Epictetus, and to Stoic philosophy. Every maxim may not apply to all individuals, but regardless of personal beliefs, one will very likely find this guide adaptable/applicable to their daily mode of being.Many thanks to Sam Torode for putting this manual into clear, easy-to -understand language. It was a great quick read and I look forward to re-reading, as well as reading Book #2 in the series, 'The Meditations - A Philosophers Guide', and the authors' other translation of some classic works. Having these editions of these two books is great if you're anything like me and needed a more accessible version of the philosophy, esp. as a newbie to this arena of thought. Highly recommend.

5.0 out of 5 stars A Very Short and Quick Primer for Stoicism

K.M. · June 20, 2023

This is a very quick read. However, there are dozens of valuable and insightful lessons contained in very few words. It gets to the heart of Stoicism. The principals are easy. Putting the principals into practice… takes practice. I’ll absolutely reread this one.

3.0 out of 5 stars Decent book but too simplified

B.S. · July 8, 2021

It's a very watered down and simple version. The book is hardly a read and is more fortune cookie like with the lessons. I did enjoy the read and was able to get some good life lessons and applicable ideas from the book. I would recommend as a more daily meditation style book or a book for children 10-12. If you are an avid reader I would not recommend this book.

5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent book

C.A. · May 16, 2025

Excellent book

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Thought-Provoking and easy to read! 📖

S.R. · December 26, 2024

A concise and insightful read, under 100 pages, packed with wisdom. Perfect for anyone looking for deep philosophical ideas in a short format.🧠 Insight: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Offers valuable reflections on life and existence.📚 Readability: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Easy to follow and digest.💡 Impact: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Leaves you thinking long after you finish.

Easy to understand

M.W. · October 26, 2023

The manual by Epictetus is one of my favourite books on stoicism. This modern version is well done and allows the reader to implement these practices into modern life.

must read book

P. · June 6, 2022

Small book but contains more meaning.The impressions this book will make upon us after reading it surely would be great.Make us to think about the way we must live our life.

Easy, Short Read

A.C. · January 5, 2019

As an introduction to Stoic principles it does a great job. It is both well written and easy to read.

Brief but powerful

K.C. · August 11, 2019

A good balance between a simple message to be delivered and many angles to look at it from. Chapters are so tiny that you can read one a day for inspiration.

The Manual: A Philosopher's Guide to Life

Product ID: U1545461112
Condition: New

4.6

AED8987

Price includes VAT & Import Duties
Type: Paperback
Availability: In Stock

Quantity:

|

Order today to get by 7-14 business days

Delivery fee of AED 20. Free for orders above AED 200.

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Imported From: United States

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BOLO is not an authorized or official retailer for most brands, nor are we affiliated with manufacturers unless specifically stated on a product page. Instead, we source verified sellers, authorized distributors or directly from the manufacturer.

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Unless otherwise stated, all prices displayed on the product page include applicable taxes and import duties.

BOLO operates in accordance with the laws and regulations of United Arab Emirates. Any items found to be restricted or prohibited for sale within the UAE will be cancelled prior to shipment. We take proactive measures to ensure that only products permitted for sale in United Arab Emirates are listed on our website.

All items are shipped by air, and any products classified as “Dangerous Goods (DG)” under IATA regulations will be removed from the order and cancelled.

All orders are processed manually, and we make every effort to process them promptly once confirmed. Products cancelled due to the above reasons will be permanently removed from listings across the website.

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The Manual: A Philosopher's Guide to Life

Product ID: U1545461112
Condition: New

4.6

The Manual: A Philosopher's Guide to Life-0
Type: Paperback

AED8987

Price includes VAT & Import Duties
Availability: In Stock

Quantity:

|

Order today to get by 7-14 business days

Delivery fee of AED 20. Free for orders above AED 200.

Returns & Warranty policies

Imported From: United States

At BOLO, we work hard to ensure the products you receive are new, genuine, and sourced from reputable suppliers.

BOLO is not an authorized or official retailer for most brands, nor are we affiliated with manufacturers unless specifically stated on a product page. Instead, we source verified sellers, authorized distributors or directly from the manufacturer.

Each product undergoes thorough inspection and verification at our consolidation and fulfilment centers to ensure it meets our strict authenticity and quality standards before being shipped and delivered to you.

If you ever have concerns regarding the authenticity of a product purchased from us, please contact Bolo Support. We will review your inquiry promptly and, if necessary, provide documentation verifying authenticity or offer a suitable resolution.

Your trust is our top priority, and we are committed to maintaining transparency and integrity in every transaction.

All product information, images, descriptions, and reviews originate from the manufacturer or from trusted sellers overseas. BOLO is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or an authorized retailer for most brands listed on our website unless stated otherwise.

While we strive to display accurate information, variations in packaging, labeling, instructions, or formulation may occasionally occur due to regional differences or supplier updates. For detailed or manufacturer-specific information, please contact the brand directly or reach out to BOLO Support for assistance.

Unless otherwise stated, all prices displayed on the product page include applicable taxes and import duties.

BOLO operates in accordance with the laws and regulations of United Arab Emirates. Any items found to be restricted or prohibited for sale within the UAE will be cancelled prior to shipment. We take proactive measures to ensure that only products permitted for sale in United Arab Emirates are listed on our website.

All items are shipped by air, and any products classified as “Dangerous Goods (DG)” under IATA regulations will be removed from the order and cancelled.

All orders are processed manually, and we make every effort to process them promptly once confirmed. Products cancelled due to the above reasons will be permanently removed from listings across the website.

Description:

Life's Missing Instruction Manual

Epictetus (c. 50-135 CE) was brought as a slave to Rome, where he became a great teacher, deeply influencing the future emperor Marcus Aurelius among many others. His philosophy, Stoicism, was practical, not theoretical--aimed at relieving human suffering here and now.

And Epictetus knew suffering. Besides being a former slave, he was lame in one leg and walked with a crutch. After a decade of teaching in Rome, he was banished by Emperor Domitian; undaunted, he established a school in Greece.

The Manualis a collection of Epictetus' essential teachings and pithy sayings, compiled by his closet student. It is the most accessible and actionable guide to Stoic philosophy, as relevant today as it was in the Roman Empire.

This new edition is rendered in contemporary English, with a foreword, by Sam Torode (based on a translation by Thomas Wentworth Higginson).

Note: A revised and further simplified edition of this book is now available, The Manual: 21st Century Edition (ISBN B09HFXHCNP). Read the sample pages of each translation to see which you prefer.


Editorial Reviews

Review

"Whenever I find myself slipping--not liking how I'm acting, thinking, or reacting--I reread The Manual. It's the simplest, most profound barely-60 pages I've come across. Read it again today. I needed it." --Jason Fried, founder & CEO at Basecamp (referencing this particular edition of The Manual on Twitter)

From the Back Cover

Quotes from The Manual

"If it is beyond your power to control, let it go."

"Do not wish that all things will go well with you, but that you will go well with all things."

"In this way, you will overcome life's challenges, rather than be overcome by them."

Reviews:

5.0 out of 5 stars "Philosophy is for living, not just learning."<br />(Epictetus.The Manual: A Philosophers Guide To Life.6

r.p. · January 6, 2025

Epictetus makes some good points about how to live.It is obvious he did not just sit around and make things up.He writes as an observing reader. Think it through then act or think it through then do not act. But never react.Pretty good read. Certainly not a waste of time if you are thinking.

5.0 out of 5 stars Should be required reading for all people.

D.M. · July 11, 2024

This is a great book with legitimate wisdom. It's simple principles that if you think about and implement in your everyday life things will go much smoother for you. It doesn't suggest taking all emotion out of your life, but it does suggest not allowing things that you have no control over to influence your emotions.

4.0 out of 5 stars Being Stoic doesn't mean what our society thinks it does

D.D. · July 30, 2020

After reading this book, I found the translator is absolutely correct: Stoicism is not what our culture takes it to be. It is not about being emotionless, it is about applying one's efforts in areas where we can actually accomplish something, most notably our internal reaction to worldly events. It is worth reading this book, just to get the definition correct.But, the book is more than a lesson in terminology. It is teaching us how to live. While reading this book, it became obvious to me that Stoicism has a lot in common with Buddhism's 4-Noble Truths and 8-Fold Path, as well as the Bhagavad Gita, Yoga, and even the Gospel of Matthew. I believe that Epictetus developed this work independently of these others, since he cites Socrates, not Buddha. But today, we live in a world where we have access to many spiritual traditions. And, I believe these other traditions go a lot further than Stoicism (at least based on this one book) toward helping us navigate our lives in the best way.Don't get me wrong. If one is just discovering the importance of our internal life, I think this book (and Stoicism) is a great place to start. But, I think it is just a start. It is great to move away from external satisfaction as a source of happiness. But, eventually, I believe, we all need to move to a tradition that gets beyond looking at our own, personal internal satisfaction as well. Ultimately Stoicism still seems a little selfish, just internally instead of externally. Or as Zen teaches us, don't focus on the tradition, focus on what the tradition is pointing toward (which isn't ourselves, neither external nor internal).

5.0 out of 5 stars Important book but not the first one you should buy

j. · November 30, 2018

If you are new to Stoicism, as I am, this is not the first book you want to get.The first books to read are the books about the general principles of Stoicism. There are quite a few out there.Then, when you are familiar with the simple, basic principles of Stoicism, this book fits in beautifully as does The Meditations of Marcus Aurelius.As a philosophy of life, Stoicism has changed my life. It makes so much sense. Especially, to let things go of which you have no control.I could go on and on, but I would not be a good Stoic I did.Put the principles into practice and you'll be better for it

5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent

d. · December 6, 2018

Excellent, concise guide for living. Great introduction to writings of Epictetus, and to Stoic philosophy. Every maxim may not apply to all individuals, but regardless of personal beliefs, one will very likely find this guide adaptable/applicable to their daily mode of being.Many thanks to Sam Torode for putting this manual into clear, easy-to -understand language. It was a great quick read and I look forward to re-reading, as well as reading Book #2 in the series, 'The Meditations - A Philosophers Guide', and the authors' other translation of some classic works. Having these editions of these two books is great if you're anything like me and needed a more accessible version of the philosophy, esp. as a newbie to this arena of thought. Highly recommend.

5.0 out of 5 stars A Very Short and Quick Primer for Stoicism

K.M. · June 20, 2023

This is a very quick read. However, there are dozens of valuable and insightful lessons contained in very few words. It gets to the heart of Stoicism. The principals are easy. Putting the principals into practice… takes practice. I’ll absolutely reread this one.

3.0 out of 5 stars Decent book but too simplified

B.S. · July 8, 2021

It's a very watered down and simple version. The book is hardly a read and is more fortune cookie like with the lessons. I did enjoy the read and was able to get some good life lessons and applicable ideas from the book. I would recommend as a more daily meditation style book or a book for children 10-12. If you are an avid reader I would not recommend this book.

5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent book

C.A. · May 16, 2025

Excellent book

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Thought-Provoking and easy to read! 📖

S.R. · December 26, 2024

A concise and insightful read, under 100 pages, packed with wisdom. Perfect for anyone looking for deep philosophical ideas in a short format.🧠 Insight: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Offers valuable reflections on life and existence.📚 Readability: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Easy to follow and digest.💡 Impact: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Leaves you thinking long after you finish.

Easy to understand

M.W. · October 26, 2023

The manual by Epictetus is one of my favourite books on stoicism. This modern version is well done and allows the reader to implement these practices into modern life.

must read book

P. · June 6, 2022

Small book but contains more meaning.The impressions this book will make upon us after reading it surely would be great.Make us to think about the way we must live our life.

Easy, Short Read

A.C. · January 5, 2019

As an introduction to Stoic principles it does a great job. It is both well written and easy to read.

Brief but powerful

K.C. · August 11, 2019

A good balance between a simple message to be delivered and many angles to look at it from. Chapters are so tiny that you can read one a day for inspiration.

Similar suggestions by Bolo

More from this brand

Similar items from “Ancient Greek & Roman”