The Handbook Essay Questions

1. To what extent do you agree or disagree with Epictetus’s statement, “Of all existing things some are in our power and others are not in our power”? What are some things that you think are under our control? What are some things that are not under our control?

2. What does Epictetus mean when he says that “You are but an impression, and not all that you seem to be”? Do you agree or disagree?

3. One of the themes of Epictetus’s writing is that the way to happiness lies in adjusting our desires so that they are in accord with events. Do you agree that this is the way to happiness? Why or why not?