Epicurus: 'The greater the difficulty, the more the glory in surmounting it.'

The greater the difficulty, the more the glory in surmounting it.

Epicurus, the ancient Greek philosopher, once said, "The greater the difficulty, the more the glory in surmounting it." This quote encapsulates the idea that overcoming challenges and obstacles, no matter how daunting they may seem, can lead to a sense of satisfaction and achievement that is unparalleled. Essentially, the quote emphasizes the value of resilience, perseverance, and determination when faced with difficulties in life. It suggests that the effort and struggle put into overcoming a challenging situation adds depth and meaning to the eventual success.In considering the significance of this quote, it is important to reflect on the underlying philosophical concept of stoicism. Stoicism, a school of thought founded in Athens by Zeno of Citium in the early 3rd century BC, promotes the idea of enduring pain or hardship without a display of feelings and without complaint. While the stoic philosophy and Epicurean philosophy may seem contradictory at first glance, they both share some fundamental principles. Both philosophies emphasize the importance of facing challenges with courage and resilience, though they may differ in their approach to dealing with emotions and external circumstances.Whereas Epicurus highlights the glory and satisfaction that come from overcoming difficulties, the stoics focus on developing inner strength and resilience to endure hardships with equanimity. Stoicism teaches that we should not be swayed by external events beyond our control and should maintain a sense of calm and inner peace regardless of the challenges we face. In a way, stoicism complements Epicurean philosophy by offering a different perspective on how to navigate the hardships of life with grace and dignity.By juxtaposing these two philosophical concepts, we can see that while Epicurus emphasizes the glory in surmounting difficulties, stoicism offers a path to acceptance and inner peace in the face of adversity. Ultimately, both philosophies remind us of the importance of resilience and fortitude in dealing with life's challenges. Whether we choose to embrace the glory of overcoming obstacles or adopt a more stoic attitude towards adversity, the underlying message remains the same – that difficulties are an inevitable part of life, and it is our response to them that truly defines our character and shapes our journey.In conclusion, Epicurus' quote serves as a timeless reminder of the value of perseverance and resilience in the face of difficulty. When we confront challenges with courage and determination, we not only overcome them but also grow stronger in the process. Whether we find glory in surmounting obstacles or choose to approach them with stoic acceptance, the essence of the quote remains profound – that the struggles we face in life can lead to moments of triumph and personal development that are truly worth celebrating.