Stoicism, as a philosophy, was founded by Zeno of Citium. He was a Phoenician by birth and a student of the Cynics and Megarians. Zeno established his school of philosophy in Athens in the early 3rd century BCE, specifically at a public space known as the Stoa Poikile, which is where the philosophy gets its name. Stoicism is one of the major schools of Hellenistic philosophy, along with Epicureanism and Skepticism.

Stoicism is characterized by its teachings on the virtue of wisdom, courage, justice, and temperance. It posits that the path to eudaimonia, often translated as happiness or flourishing, is found in accepting the moment as it is, by not allowing one's judgments to be obstructed by irrational desires and by using one's mind to understand the world and to do one's part in nature's plan.

The philosophy emphasizes the importance of rationality and self-discipline, and it teaches that we should strive to live in accordance with nature, which is governed by reason. Stoics believe that we are all part of a single, rational, divine plan and that recognizing this can lead to a tranquil and fulfilling life.

The history of Stoicism is often divided into three phases:


1. Early Stoa: This phase begins with the founding of the school by Zeno and continues until the time of Antipater of Tarsus. During this period, Stoicism was primarily concerned with ethics and logic, with an emphasis on the development of a virtuous life.


2. Middle Stoa: The Middle Stoa includes figures such as Panaetius of Rhodes and Posidonius. This period saw a broadening of Stoic thought, with a greater focus on the study of nature and the cosmos, as well as the integration of some elements of Platonism and Aristotelianism into Stoic philosophy.


3. Late Stoa: The Late Stoa is marked by the contributions of Musonius Rufus, Seneca the Younger, Epictetus, and the Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius. This period is known for the practical application of Stoic principles in everyday life, with a focus on personal ethics and the cultivation of inner strength.

Stoicism has had a profound influence on Western thought, influencing figures as diverse as the Christian Church Fathers, Enlightenment thinkers, and modern psychologists. Its teachings on resilience, acceptance, and the power of reason continue to resonate with people today, offering a framework for living a meaningful and virtuous life.

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Scholars usually divide the history of Stoicism into three phases: Early Stoa, from the founding of the school by Zeno to Antipater. Middle Stoa, including Panaetius and Posidonius. Late Stoa, including Musonius Rufus, Seneca, Epictetus, and Marcus Aurelius.read more >>