Epictetus was born into slavery in western Turkey around 50 BC, and from an early age felt a strong attraction to philosophy, in particular the stoic philosophy which was based on self-knowledge. In later life he was formally emancipated, and subsequently founded a school of philosophy and acquired a reputation as an influential teacher. He taught that philosophy should be more than a mental exercise, but a way of life.

At some point, Epictetus became disabled – some tell the story that it was the result of a beating, but others do not mention this detail. When a friend who had not seen him for some time saw him using a stick and limping, he asked, “When did you become lame?”

Epictetus replied, “I am not lame. My leg is lame.”