Major Works:
* Letter to Menoeceus: A foundational text outlining the basics of Epicurean philosophy. It covers topics such as death, pleasure, and the pursuit of happiness.
* Principal Doctrines: A concise summary of the core tenets of Epicureanism, including the nature of the universe, the gods, and the avoidance of unnecessary fear.
* On Nature: A lengthy work exploring Epicurus's atomic theory and his views on the cosmos.
* On the Canon: A treatise dealing with the criteria for determining truth and knowledge.
* On Life: A guide to living a virtuous and fulfilling life.
* On Justice: A discussion of ethical principles, including the importance of fairness and compassion.
* On Friendship: A reflection on the nature of friendship and its role in a happy life.
Other Writings:
In addition to these major works, Epicurus wrote numerous letters, poems, and other shorter pieces. Some of these are preserved in fragments, offering glimpses into his thoughts on a variety of subjects.
Loss and Recovery:
Unfortunately, most of Epicurus's writings have been lost. The few that survive were preserved through copies and quotations from later writers. In recent years, there have been some exciting discoveries of previously unknown fragments, which have provided valuable new insights into Epicureanism.
Legacy:
Despite the loss of much of his work, Epicurus's ideas have had a profound impact on Western thought. His emphasis on pleasure, reason, and living a life free from fear continues to resonate with many today.
Further Reading:
If you are interested in exploring Epicurus's writings further, I recommend checking out the following resources:
* The Complete Works of Epicurus by Cyril Bailey
* Epicurus: Letters, Principal Doctrines, Vatican Sayings translated by Russel Geer
* The Epicurean Life by Susan Wolf
* Epicurus and His Philosophy by Norman DeWitt
These texts provide translations and commentary on the surviving works of Epicurus, offering a valuable introduction to his thought.