Final answer:
The account that Epictetus' leg was broken by his first master and he remained calm aligns with the stoic virtues he is known to have practiced and taught, exemplifying resilience and a composed acceptance of suffering.
Step-by-step explanation:
The claim that Epictetus' leg was broken by his first master, and that he faced the ordeal calmly, aligns with the stoic philosophy he practiced and taught. Although this specific event isn't detailed in ancient texts, it is congruent with the widely recognized stoic demeanor Epictetus is known for, as depicted through his discourses and the anecdotes of his students. Stoicism, as a philosophy, encourages fortitude and a calm acceptance of hardships, traits that Epictetus exemplified throughout his life despite being enslaved.
Slavery in ancient Rome often subjected individuals to brutal treatment and lack of personal agency, yet it is told that Epictetus used his experiences as a slave to shape his stoic beliefs. These philosophical views have been associated with Epictetus and other Stoics like Marcus Aurelius, focusing on personal virtue and an understanding of the things within one's control versus those that are not. The calmness demonstrated by Epictetus in the face of adversity serves as a practical demonstration of his philosophical teachings. His influence on stoic thought and its subsequent impact on Western philosophy has been substantial, showcasing resilience in the face of suffering and the pursuit of a virtuous life.