The Letter to Menoeceus

The Letter to Menoeceus, written by Epicurus, emphasizes that the goal of life is to achieve happiness through ataraxia—peace of mind. Epicurus advises avoiding unnecessary desires, fears (especially of death and gods), and pain to maintain mental tranquility. He encourages living simply, valuing friendship, and questioning assumptions to reduce anxiety. By understanding that death is natural and not to be feared, we can enjoy life fully without distress over what’s beyond. Overall, it advocates for a balanced, mindful approach to life focused on pleasure understood as the absence of suffering.