Epictetus

~50–135 CE · Greek (Phrygian, born enslaved) · Roman Empire

Known for: Born a slave, became the most influential Stoic teacher in history — proved that freedom is a state of mind

Epictetus was born into slavery in Hierapolis (modern Turkey) and owned by Epaphroditus, a wealthy freedman of Nero. He studied Stoic philosophy under Musonius Rufus while still enslaved, and was eventually freed. He opened his own school of philosophy in Nicopolis, Greece, where he taught for decades. He wrote nothing — his teachings survive through his student Arrian's Discourses and the Enchiridion (Handbook).

His core teaching was radical: the only thing within our control is our own mind. Everything else — health, wealth, reputation, even freedom itself — is 'not up to us' and should be accepted with equanimity. This philosophy, born from actual slavery, has influenced everyone from Marcus Aurelius to James Stockdale to modern cognitive behavioral therapy.

Browse all 1,000 figures by category

Enable JavaScript to view the full "if they lived today" Q&A and personality profile.