This book is the first study to explore an ancient philosopher’s attitude towards the vast majority of society, who had no knowledge or affiliation with philosophy—namely laypeople. It reveals that Epictetus held a sophisticated viewpoint regarding laypeople and envisaged means for lay reform outside of philosophical study.

In recent years substantial effort has been expended by scholars to better understand the nature of the ancient interest in divination. This study will argue that the Stoic philosopher Epictetus’ views of divination have been largely overlooked and mistakenly defined by his modern interpreters. While often portrayed as being opposed to the art, it is proposed that he envisages divination can be beneficially employed: namely in highlighting certain moral actions, and in motivating individuals to commence philosophical study.