"In this volume, Waterfield provides a translation of the extant works of Epictetus, an accessible introduction, and helpful historical, scholarly notes. . . . Waterfield provides essential philosophical ideas (for example, one should focus on what is in one's full control and let go of what is not), a condensed list of Stoic exercises, and specific references to Epictetus's works. . . . Recommended."
Choice
"Waterfield’s clear, readable translation brings out Epictetus’ humour and conversational tone as well as his philosophical vision."
London Review of Books
"A scrupulously rendered faithful rendition of both the substance and tone of the original. . . . I am grateful for this new edition of Epictetus, not only for its deft literary style but for Waterfield’s erudite and helpful annotations. It is a privilege to have the works of this great thinker offered to us with such excellence."
- Richard Smoley, Parabola
“This is an excellent book, well-produced and presented... a stimulating work of scholarship.”
Classics for All
"It is a privilege to have the works of this great thinker offered to us with such excellence."
Parabola
“This new translation of Epictetus by Waterfield is very welcome indeed. Both the translation and the notes help to make Epictetus more accessible than ever. Especially valuable is the introduction, which expertly situates Epictetus’s thought within wider Stoic philosophy and touches on many of the key debates in recent scholarship.”
- John Sellars, author of The Pocket Epicurean,
“This is now the best English translation of Epictetus available. Idiomatic yet accurate, it captures Epictetus’s voice in all its moods: direct and personal, often brusque and challenging, sometimes ironic, sometimes humorous. The introduction and notes are a reliable and up-to-date guide to the most influential Stoic in today’s world.”
- Brad Inwood, author of Ethics after Aristotle,
“Waterfield is a gifted writer and a superb classicist whose translation makes Epictetus come alive on the page. His introduction, at once scholarly and highly accessible, sheds new light on the texts and philosophy of this famous Stoic popularizer. Epictetus’s ‘live talks,’ preserved by Arrian, mix street preacher with acerbic comic. This edition of the complete works of Epictetus will be prized by all interested in delving into Stoic philosophy. We couldn’t ask for a better guide than Waterfield.”
- Nancy Sherman, author of Stoic Wisdom: Ancient Lessons for Modern Resilience,