The Handbook of Epictetus, or Enchiridion, is a compilation of Stoic ethical advice by Arrian from the Discourses of Epictetus. It emphasizes the distinction between things within one's control and those that are not, advising readers to focus on their own actions, desires, and opinions. The book provides practical guidance on how to achieve mental freedom and happiness by accepting what is outside of one's control and living in accordance with nature. It has been influential since its compilation in the early 2nd century and remains a significant work in Stoic philosophy[2][4][5].
Meditations is a series of private writings composed by Marcus Aurelius, one of Rome's greatest emperors, as he struggled to understand himself and make sense of the universe. Written between 170 and 180 CE while on military campaigns, this work combines Stoic philosophy with personal observations on leadership, duty, mortality, and human nature. Through twelve books of intimate thoughts never intended for publication, Marcus Aurelius explores themes of self-improvement, resilience in the face of adversity, and living virtuously while accepting what cannot be changed.
Most people learn about Stoicism through the dichotomy of control. It sounds simple: focus on what's up to you, ignore what isn't. But this apparent simplicity is dangerous.
The dichotomy of control becomes the lens through which people view all of Stoicism. Get it wrong, and everything else falls apart. You end up passive when you should act, frustrated when you should be patient, or convinced Stoics can't believe in cause and effect.
Michael and Caleb walk through four major misunderstandings that stem from getting the dichotomy wrong. From the myth that Stoics are passive observers to the confusion about free will and determinism, these mistakes reveal how a powerful idea can be corrupted when we bring our own assumptions to ancient wisdom.
(04:15) Four Confusions
(11:17) The Passivity Argument
(19:08) Do You Have Immediate Control?
(27:45) No Trichotomy
(35:58) Is the Dichotomy Incompatible With Determinism?
(41:00) Wrapping Up
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Thanks to Michael Levy for graciously letting us use his music in the conversations:
https://ancientlyre.com/
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Stoa Conversations: Stoicism Applied 
