Category: Courage

Introduction

The word virtue is usually misunderstood as an easy concept in religion and morality. It is a forgotten word in the age of computers and the internet. Many have taken it for granted, and only those interested in philosophy or religion are somewhat interested in it.

We have to contemplate that this is what the world needs now. The peoples of the world should go back to basics, study philosophy and religion, know the virtues of their own religion. The global village, as authors and commentators contend, is a complicated world with less morality and virtues, and more material things.

Virtue is a forgotten word. What tradition and religion have taught is gone. The teachings of the old and the wise seemed buried in the annals of yesteryears.

Virtues define the way Christians live the teachings of Christ or the way Muslims live the teachings of Mohammed; or the teachings of Buddha, and so with other religious sects and denominations.

St. Augustine, a doctor of the Catholic Church, refers to virtue as something that connotes power or strength. Since power usually connotes activity, then virtue is an act. Virtue has a goal. One who possesses virtue is a person who practices his/her faith because the practice of virtue is directed to another. The act of possessing and directing virtue is a good act. Since it is an act, therefore it is directed to something and to someone, not just to the self. (Aquinas, 2010, p. 3)

An emerging concept is the phrase virtue ethics or the need of the present generation the return to virtue ethics, which is characterized by focusing on character traits of individuals in their relationship with others or to the community in general. This includes personal commitments and community traditions. (Kotva, 1996, p. 12)

Virtue ethics means three things: first, it is human nature as it really is; second, it is human nature in how it can be; and third, those which pertain to habits, our talents and capabilities, interests, likes, and the things that should not be done. There are likes, capabilities, and talents in us as humans that should not be encouraged because they are directed to our very nature and would not result in an acceptable end. Virtue theory deals with who we are and who we could be, according to the standards of morality as acceptable by the majority. (Kotva, 1996, p. 17)

Most ideas and concepts of virtue are taken from the moral teachings of the bible of Christians and in other moral teachings of other religions, like the Quran of the Muslims, or the teachings of Buddha. We can understand that moral teachings are the basis for most ideas and concepts of virtue practices. (Oakley & Cocking, 2001, p. 7)

The virtue of courage

Courage, or fortitude, is one of the cardinal virtues, along with prudence (also known as wisdom), justice, and temperance. (Mitch, 2000, p. 13) The Event Temples website calls it the heart virtues. They are however almost similar. They are only different when it comes to terminology. The concept, the ideas, the philosophies, origin, and evolution are the same. Virtues come from the sacredness of man, but they have to come out before they become virtues. It is the same as saying that man is by nature good. He comes from the good (God) and will return to God.

I would like to focus on the virtue of courage. This is courage in the truest sense of the word because it leads to many other virtues. Courage is strength, leadership, or love. To me, virtue always bears a religious connotation, although there are many people who possess good virtues, and yet they dont have a particular religion at all. Be that as it may, courage has made martyrs, and enabled the first Christians, Muslims, and others, to stand and form their respective community of believers. Courage is the world needs now. Let me expound on this.

Courage is the most celebrated of all the virtues when we talk of political virtues. Sacred books of religions of the world are filled with stories of courage of the people of God. Moses showed extreme courage when he led the people from bondage in Egypt to the land God promised of them. Other leaders after Moses also showed courage. His successor Aaron did the same. Leaders of the world practice courage, although some do not know how to do it correctly.

Indeed courage can motivate and give justice to the oppressed, and protect the innocent and those deprived of justice. Citizens with enough courage risk their lives for love of country and fellow citizens. Bravery, which is synonymous with courage, is one of the prerequisites of a good citizen in a country wanting heroes during times of war and calamities. Courage is a trait needed for soldiers so that they can protect their country from foreign invaders (Rabieh, 2006, p. 1). Expressing ones own dignity is synonymous with courage (Meyer, 2002, p. 195).

But in the present age, courage, like any other virtue, is taken for granted. Christians do not see this virtue as too important anymore. (Spiegel, 2004, p. 61) In other religions like Islam, courage has been practiced with a remarkable dedication that many of those who have it are being feared by other religions.

It came to me in one of my moments of reflection, a question that I have to answer myself  is courage an expression of anger? If that were so then it is not a virtue, because killing as an expression of anger is not a virtue. Or if you inflict injury or death to others in the name of religion or belief, is that courage? In one of my face-to-face moments with God, I asked him straightforward, Then why are they doing this? Is it because they have courage? Is the courage involved in what they are doing? Is virtue involved in it?

War is caused by anger. This is not courage practiced by soldiers. The war in Iraq and Afghanistan is caused by anger met with anger. The terrorists who attacked the United States on September 11, 2001, were angry at the American people. But then, the United States met anger with anger.

In my moment of contemplation, I closed my eyes to the world. The answer was there  courage is learned with good intentions. Those who know how to close their eyes and pray and contemplate are given the courage to help others who are suffering. (Jamison, 2006, p. 44)

There is a different meaning to courage; a distinct, honorable, and religious meaning that all of us should understand.

This is a different meaning of courage  loving and caring for those who are suffering in one form of courage. The likes of Thomas Merton, Mother Teresa of Calcutta, Pope Benedict XVI, they have courage in their heart because they love the poor and the downtrodden. (Aguilar, 2008, p. 158)

Those Buddhists and the so-called contemplatives who embrace the life of solitude but who care for those who are suffering, victims of war and injustice, they are a few of the most courageous people. Thich Nhat Hanh, Thomas Merton, the Pope, and other religious personalities, renounce violence, injustice, and human rights. They conduct interreligious dialogue, exchange ideas between religions and faiths for the purpose of discussing the subject of love, non-violence, and solutions to the problems and ills of the world. They are apolitical. Thich Nhat Hanh is a Buddhist who advocated the end of the war in Vietnam through peaceful means and did not take sides, but the Vietnamese government threatened to kill him. Interreligious dialogues have been conducted by Buddhist and Christian monks purposely to talk about religion, peace, and love. (King, 2001, p. 7)

These people want to change the world in their own little way. It takes a lot of courage to do that. Thich Nhat Hanhs ideas and reflections on non-violence and on the subject of Engaged Buddhism are widely accepted and admired throughout the world, and he has been acclaimed as one of the best sources on the topic of peace and reconciliation. We should be concerned and engaged in the suffering of the people, especially those who are caught in the middle of a war. We have to attend to the victims of war and violence because by doing so we practice the teachings of Buddha.

There are instances that I take courage in asking the topic of virtues, with philosophical underpinnings. I have always thought that courage is for something that is worthy, something that is executed for a particular honorable goal.

Our energetic heart which contains the six virtues refers to courage as the zeal of valor. In fact, courage is also linked to the other five forms of expression, as mentioned in the Event Temples. (Event Temples, 2007, p. 1)

I believe the energetic heart awakens the soul. Courage then is an expression of our energetic heart and it is done so with a feeling of honor and valor and not anger. When we use courage, or if we practice courage as a virtue, we are using our heart not our head, because virtue comes from the heart.

A Personal experience

Let me relate a personal experience that awakened my feeling of courage, which to me tested my personal questions in this material world. Let me get back to the topic of soldiers who need enough courage in fulfilling their duties. It is taught and learned in training, the virtue of courage. It is very important in the life of a soldier because he cannot perform the duties and responsibilities of a soldier without courage. The training of a soldier demonstrates that virtues can be taught and learned. A soldier undertakes training but he has to take it by heart, make training an experience of a life that his soul can feel it, and express the virtues he has learned as a soldier.

A short stint in military training (as a student) allowed me to experience the sacrifices of other people who dedicate their lives to the service of their country. It was a unique experience, to be trained and pressured in doing things you do not like to do. This brief experience was only interrupted for reasons I cannot divulge, but I learned to experience the virtue of courage which cannot be taken out of me now.

Now I can express myself, my souls feelings through courage, without being angry. Now I can defend my ideas and what I believe is right without being emotional. Courage is not about being great. It is about standing firm for something you believe. It is the opposite or the absence of cowardice. But it is not all about fighting or having guns. As mentioned earlier, the most courageous people like the Pope, Thomas Merton, and Mother Teresa, do not know what a gun is, but they love and fight for the sick and the poor, and they do not have arms or any weapon to defend themselves except their honest and sincere prayer to help.

In the world of business, you need a lot of courage.

There was this co-worker, a leader like me, who seemed to be always in control, not giving me (us) any time to provide suggestions, improvements, or probable ideas for our organization. She said she was senior to many of us, and so her ideas should prevail. Of course, we all reacted, but sometimes we have to effect change at a slow pace or mellow manner. If not, many things would be affected. In this situation, we wanted to change not only on the individual in question but for all of us.

Of course, this person should not be tolerated, but my point was to focus not only on one person but on all of us  because we are in an organization and we are working as a team and everyone should regard the other as a co-worker, or a brother or a sister. We cannot change always for the sake of changing. We cannot go on, diverge, from the normal path, just because change has to be done. There are people and things that must go to create timing. I did not react instantly, not because I did not have the courage but because I wanted him to realize that courage is not a virtue to control others. But it was also a period of self-awareness, referred to by Cam Caldwell (2010). I was expressing myself in response to this persons actions.

We had a confrontation; mine was a sincere outpouring of opinion that I wanted to share and not a feeling of holier-than-thou attitude. I just wanted to let him know that he had courage in the wrong way. I was a bit successful because after that there were changes in the office.

It became a wonderful experience for me. I think I displayed courage in that instance when it was needed most. What came out was a friendship that was never expected. We both came out of our comfort zones. Through courage, which was not only my own courage but his too, we have formed a bond among ourselves, including the members of our team. Now, this bond enabled us to give out what we can to contribute to our organization. It has become a motivating factor. Our joined talents and capabilities have made all of us successful.

Experiences teach us many lessons in life. Virtues sometimes emerge as an outcome of the many things that happen day by day. There are times I think that it is just a coincidence, but these are instruments or tools of God that allow us to learn from it.

My life has changed from the time I realized I had courage. This pivotal event did not come to me when I said I experienced a sort of military training. Having the virtue of courage is like a transformation on my part. My inner thoughts, my intuition, and perhaps my soul are in unison, trying to awaken me in saying that virtues have been here inside. You just have to let it come out.

Is it not wonderful to hear when someone addresses you and say, You are a courageous man? That is nice to hear because the sentence has many meanings. It could mean you have a compassionate heart, or youre a brave person.

Courage has allowed my heart to look at life beyond the secluded corners of my home. It motivated me to see my neighbors with compassion and be one with those in suffering. Courage is a virtue that incorporates other virtues like compassion, and even love. It has moved me to work and fight for others, and to help uplift the lives of those who are suffering.

References

Aguilar, M. (2008). Contemplating God, changing the world. London: Society for Promoting Christian Knowledge. p. 158.

Aquinas, T. (2010). Disputed questions on virtue. J. Hause & C. E. Murphy, (Trans.). Indianapolis, Indiana: Hackett Publishing Company, Inc. p. 3.

Caldwell, C. (2010). Identity, self-awareness, and self-deception: ethical implications for leaders and organizations. Journal of Business Ethics (2009) 90:393-406. Web.

Event Temples (2007). Living from the heart. Web.

Jamison, C. (2006). Finding sanctuary: monastic steps for everyday life. London: Weidenfeld & Nicolson. p. 44.

King, R. H. (2001). Thomas Merton and Thich Nhat Hanh: engaged spirituality in an age of globalization. New York: Continuum International Publishing Group Inc. p. 7.

Kotva, J. J. (1996). The Christian case for virtue ethics. Washington, D. C.: Georgetown University Press. pp. 12-7.

Meyer, M. J. (2002). Dignity is a (modern) virtue. In D. Kretzmer & E. Klein, Eds. The concept of human dignity in human rights discourse. The Netherlands: Kluwer Law International. p. 195.

Mitch, S. (2000). Courageous virtue. United States of America: Emmaus Road Publishing. p. 13.

Oakley, J. & Cocking, D. (2001). Virtue ethics and professional roles. Cambridge, United Kingdom: Press Syndicate of the University of Cambridge. p. 7.

Rabieh, L. (2006). Plato and the virtue of courage. United States of America: The Johns Hopkins University Press. p. 1.

Spiegel, J. (2004). How to be good in a world gone mad: living a life of Christian virtue. Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel Publications. p. 61.

In a societal context, courage is a state of an individuals ability to venture, endure and resist hazard, terror, or difficulties. A courageous person is considered to be brave in society. There are different types of courage that enable individuals to discover their abilities. Venturing into a new business and also soldiers going into war with an aid of protecting citizens is an act of courage in a society. Courage is an important virtue in ones life since it boosts self-confidence and helps an individual venture into risky activities that have a good final product. A multidisciplinary perspective on courage should be advised since it elevates a persons confidence, enabling them to endeavor and persevere circumstances thus achieving desired goals.

Courage is an essential virtue that is traditionally sought after and lauded as a crucial quality. Described by Maya Angelou as the most important of all the virtues because without courage you cant practice any other virtue consistently, it is composed of different types, including physical courage, moral courage, social courage, spiritual courage, emotional courage, and intellectual courage (Shew &Garchar, 2020). Moral courage is a form of ethical behavior that involves a person doing a good thing despite possible risks such as the loss of a job. An example of moral courage entails the prevention of listening to gossip and also practicing good qualities even when nobody is watching. Social courage entails individual confidence to attend social events and be ready to face embarrassment and mockery. An example of social courage involves performing in concerts and also creating charity events and presenting a group in a social forum. It plays a vital role in an individual that encourages networking. Finally, spiritual courage refers to unfolding ourselves to our own susceptible and the enigma of life. Examples of spiritual courage includes attending different religious events and listening to their beliefs, and communicating honestly with individuals about death.

Intellectual courage refers to the capability of a person to tackle strenuous concepts, ask for illumination and explanation, and challenge another persons point of view. It broadens an individual way of thinking. A good example of intellectual courage is Edward Murrows famous World War II news broadcasts. Intellectual courage is often contrasted to physical courage, which mostly implies facing the threat of bodily harm as a part of a specific ethical dilemma. Physical courage entails facing physical pain, for example, engaging in deadly fights (Howard &Reiley, 2020). Examples of physical courage involve going into war. Specifically, when choosing between the fear of being heavily injured and the need to protect the loved ones and the freedom of ones country, one demonstrates an instance of physical courage. Physical courage creates fitness and also prepares an individual to tackle any form of challenge. However, distancing the concept of physical courage from intellectual one completely would mean doing both an injustice since one is often accompanied by the other. Specifically, intellectual courage collides with physical one when having to demonstrate intellectual prowess in fighting the enemy and utilizing all available resources in a unique and original manner in order to retain tactical and strategic advantages.

Moreover, courage can be defined in different ways in modern society. Most frequently, it is interpreted as the ability to face difficulties and threats straightforwardly as opposed to avoiding them. However, courage may also be interpreted as overcoming a personal issue, such as admitting ones fault or defeat (Pendlebury, 2017). Therefore, the diversity of definitions is quite impressive, causing the process of analyzing courage rather tricky. For instance, in the present-day context, courage may involve being able to oppose the ideas that are promoted as the unquestionable truth that must not be doubted in any circumstances. In the present-day social environment, when modern media makes it possible for cyberbullying and similar attacks to take most violent forms, leading to doxing and similar issues threatening ones safety, expressing a dissenting opinion does take impressive courage.

Furthermore, an attempt to challenge the existing status quo in relation to societal norms can be considered an example of how courage is redefined in the present-day context. Despite the tendency to embrace cultural and social change in a number of communities, a significant range of modern institutions and communities remain steeped in prejudice. Therefore, challenging how specific populations and their needs are perceived ought to be regarded as doubtless acts of bravery and manifestations of courage. Even though the specified actions might seem as trivial from the perspective of a broader concept of courage as it was represented during the Civil Rights era and similar movements, the described scenarios also suggest mustering a significant amount of courage. For example, a rally geared at promoting the rights of a marginalized minority should be seen as an act of courage.

The essay comprehensively describes the word courage in various dimensions. In conclusion, courage is depicted as a virtue in life and its components are applied in different fields. Additionally, the importance of courage has been discussed for instance, it promotes peace, enhances good leadership, builds self-confidence, and promotes innovation consequently, leading to the success of an organization. Furthermore, the significance of courage as an act of selflessness and an attempt to challenge the existing status quo has been raised, thus, adding to the proposed definition of the subject matter. The essay is clearly essential because it illustrates to the reader how knowledge can be boosted for example, by acknowledging ones fear and working on it.

Revision of a paper before submitting is essential because it helps a person to identify a mistake and rectify it. Style benefits from revision because it enhances the intelligibility and the conciseness of a document. The most challenging area in the draft paper is focusing on the topic to write about and an introduction as well because it is from them that a reader gets a broad view of the research. Avoidance of plagiarism, the capability of following given instructions clearly, and identifying grammar errors are the main strengths of the draft. Repetition of words is the main challenge and it can be rectified by avoiding unimportant phrases by using different words with similar meanings. It can also be prevented by using short sentences, using various transition words, and avoiding stating the obvious. The unfocused topic sentence is also a weakness and can be corrected by accentuating and broadening it with evidence.

This essay has a rather high significance since it examines the nature of courage as one of the major characteristics lauded in modern culture. Being courageous is typically seen not as an extra trait but as a necessary prerequisite for being respected. Moreover, the notion of courage is quite subjective, which complicates the subject matter even further. In turn, this essay considers the phenomenon of courage in its different interpretations, which is why readers are likely to care about this discussion. Currently it seems that the parts of the draft addressing the types of courage will benefit from the revision most. In addition, the analytical parts represent quite a struggle.

References

Howard, M. C., &Reiley, P. J. (2020). Physical courage predicts relevant outcomes in associated contexts: The creation of a measure and empirical analysis into the construct. Journal of Business Research, 110, 80-94.

Pendlebury, G. (2017). Action and ethics in Aristotle and Hegel: escaping the malign influence of Kant. Routledge.

Shew, M., &Garchar, K. (Eds.). (2020). Philosophy for Girls: An Invitation to the Life of Thought. Oxford University Press.

Adolescent literature

Courage is arguably a predominant theme in fantasy literature. From the ancient tales such as Epic of Gilgamesh as well as Beowulf, the elements of courage in these fantasy tales have over the generations captured the total imagination of the young readers.

Today, with the growing popularity of such fantasy works as The Lord of the Rings and the Harry Porter series, the genre as well as the aspects of courage has grown to be popular all the time. Though, some pundits object to the plain presence of supernatural or magical forces in young adult literature, these aspects do compel young adults to explore diverse social elements through reading (Tuck 103).

Fantasy narratives are generally characterized by insidious use of magical or supernatural powers not present or found in our everyday society. These aspects are injected in the plot, setting, theme and the storyline. The concept of courage is etched in the everyday objects which are enveloped with supernatural powers including the individuals who realize that they have supernatural powers.

For instance, the classic fantasy novel The Black Cauldron the concept of courage is articulated considerably. The author asserts that in the Land of Prydain, where evil is everywhere the Black Cauldron be destroyed for cauldron Arawn had formed an army of deathless soldiers.

However, the adventure presents an opportunity for Taran, the assistant Pig-Keeper a chance to use his sword and prove that he is a man among men. To sustain a continuous flow of the novels sequence the author employs the use of plot within a plot to establish his theme. Therefore, exploring the concept of courage he employs the use suspense and imagery.

This is well illustrated by the manner such characters as Eilonwy, the tough willed and hot-tongued princess; Fflewddur Fflam, the exaggeration-prone lyricist; the faithful Gurgi; in addition to the curmudgeonly Doli are developed. These characters are all involved in an epic fight involving good and evil that is illustrated as determining the fate of the renowned land of Prydain.

Presenting the tale of Taran, the assistant Pig-Keeper of Prydain, the author knits a decisive tale that captures the imagination of the young adults considerably. This is effected by the manner he explores the concept of heroism.

Using motley of plot sequences he examines the aspects of sacrifice, dedication, courage as well as the honor of being faithful. Hence, the aspects of courage are witnessed where Taran and his close associates are called upon to seek and eliminate the Black Cauldron, which was being exploited by Arawn ,the Lord of the Land of Death to create soldiers from the corpses of his slain enemies.

Drawing a line from the contemporary society the author attempts to relate the happenings in the adventure with the real world. Despite the adventure being complex the author doesnt shy away from presenting both the strongholds and weakness of his characters. This is a good element of any fantasy novel.

Discussion

However, he goes beyond that by incorporating unique features within his characters. Consider that he depicts the support characters as fearless individuals who were ready to sacrifice. Also, he creates scenes that illustrate the unending dedication of the warriors who were fighting the evil Arawn. And thats why such character as Eilonwy is all the time inspiring due to her to her courage and determination.

Equally, to illustrate how the characters embraced the hostile challenges the novel shows how determined and courageous Taran and his friends were. Therefore, the concept of courage is utilized to forge the character personality. These qualities are essential in establishing a suitable fantasy literature work (Lamb 24).

Young Adult readers have a unique taste for diverse themes as well as a distinct preference for specific writings. However, to capture their imagination the Black Cauldron carries far greater and mature themes which reflect the nature and life of the Prydain.

More so, this involves examining the manner the characters relates to each other in time of death, challenge or when they were facing the grime reality of death. Therefore, exploring the dynamics of the novel, the concepts of courage are explained through instances of challenge where individual dedication was placed under severe test.

Most authors do not interlace the elements of heroism and courage. The manner Black Cauldron presents the element of courage is profoundly critical. Consider the fact that princes as well as war captains who are all well armed goes to Caer Dallben with a solo mission: to destroy the Cauldron.

However, this arrangement elates Taran; the Assistant Pig-Keeper for it was an opportunity for him to participate in the mission. Therefore, Taran is symbolically presented as the face of courage. Though he faces quite a number of challenges he can be said to be the face of the entire adventure.

This indicates that the author employs the dwarf Doli, bard-king Fflewddur Fflam, Ellidyr, and Prince Gwydion as support characters that make Taran rediscover his selfless dedication. The best illustration is provided when these characters together with Taran rides to attack Annuvin, Arawns land with the aim of rescuing Eilonwy and Gurgi. But they came to discover there were other greater forces despite Arawn and Gwydion who were interested with Cauldron.

The complexity of the plot indicates the manner the author examines the multiplicity of issues relevant to the young adult readers. It should be noted that unlike in the adult literature, the use of imagery is done in way that the reader is allowed to relate to the characters. Hence, the injection of fantasy through a simple yet flowing language explains the authority the author executes in attracting the young adult readers.

Also the manner the plot of the adventure reflects instrumentally how the young readers perceive the power of supernatural forces. Consider the instance where Taran assumes the Adaon ornament, as agreed, and came to note it has magical powers which it give to its user. More so, it give the wearer prophetic visions. Using the magical powers of the ornament Taran courageously leads the others to discover the houses for Orgoch, Orddu, and Orwen where he exchanges the ornament for the Cauldron.

To young readers the acts of Taran defines how courage compels individuals to overcome personal objectives for the sake of helping others. The manner the characters moves illustrates how one-man courage can cause change. Therefore, ignoring their individual origin Taran and his friends comes together with a common goal of overcoming the evil and destroying their powers.

Without any reserved personal interest they are able to fight and sacrifice for the sake of each other. Using elaborate story-line the author explores the intricate aspects of courage. Hence, he demonstrates courage is being personal and selfless (Norton 104).

For instance, the instance where Taran and his friend upon getting hold of the cauldron attempts to destroy it, but their efforts are fruitless.

The witches inform them that the only approach to obliterate the cauldron is for a breathing person to penetrate the cauldron, deliberately and enthusiastically, sacrificing his personal life to annihilate the cauldron. Examining the journey of the characters it is crucial to note that Taran is illustrates how an individual progresses from a humble beginning to greater heights in life.

Therefore, though the novel is in essence an epic of fantasy it provides the young readers with a sense of purpose as is with the seamless dedication of Taran. With uncompromised courage he stood by his friends despite his background. He sacrificed his personal aspirations for the glory of others. According to the novel Black Cauldron this could only happen due to a heart that is fearless and courageous.

Exploring the dynamics of fantasy literature the author can be said to be successful in his attempt. The use of balanced language, a well developed plot, fair use of literary tools makes the novel attractive.

Therefore, in regard to the scope of exploiting themes relating to either magical or supernatural powers, he builds a profound storyline. This is demonstrated in the manner he delivers Taran as an innocent boy who courageously grows to be a hero. Therefore, despite showing Taran as having been called to act courageously, the boy is wiser though sad. As a Youngman he has witnessed both war and death.

Young readers literature is often tied imagination which borders on reality. Perhaps that is why the Black Cauldron exploits the concepts of fantasy to create a scenario where the characters are utilizing their exceptional powers to overcome. More so, examining their relationship with the outside world it is apparent that venturing into fantasy genus is the best way authors can capture the young readers.

Conclusion

Developing characters who relates to their daily today challenges creates a formidable region of expression. That is why when we examine the authors approach and the manner he shapes his characters, diverse elements are forged in order to build a strong adventure. Thus, Taran is developed to reflect the innate desires of adolescent readers as well as illustrating the manner they can overcome challenges in all social situations.

Therefore, by incorporating elements of love, magic as well as supernatural powers. The characters are given a real touch of the natural setting. Hence, this makes the narrative to remain strong, though there instances where the author fails to reflect the real scope of courage and heroism.

The book is essential instrumental in exploring how the young readers can learn and embrace diverse situations in life. Therefore, the narrative can be said to be a metaphor that is exploited to challenge the young adult readers. This is due to the fact that the manner the characters have been developed portrays their engagements as concerns the scope of real world (Herald 136).

Therefore, the novel Black Cauldron demonstrates courage is an essential ingredient that propels individuals to greater heights. As a challenge to the young readers the author demonstrates how Taran from innocent background overcame social challenges fearlessly.

Thus, despite individual station in life sacrifice, courage and determination nothing is impossible. Hence, brave young men, one a bard in addition to the other a princely combatant, symbolically sacrifice themselves in the fight against the supernatural forces of the cauldron (Alexander 222).

Works Cited

Alexander, Lloyd. Black Cauldron.NY: Holt, 1965.

Herald, Diana Tixier. Reading Interests in Genre Fiction. Englewood: Libraries, 2000.

Lamb, Nancy. Crafting Stories for Children. Cincinnati: Writers Digest, 2004

Norton, Donna E. An Introduction to Childrens Literature. Columbus: Pearson, 2007.

Tuck, Donald H. Science Fiction and Fantasy. Chicago: Advent, 1974.

Brechts Mother Courage and Her Children is an eternal creation

Bertolt Brechts Mother Courage and Her Children is one of the greatest plays of the 20^th century. It raises essential issues which any person should try to respond. Being written during the most horrible war in the history of humanity it cannot but maintain its importance throughout times.

Of course, this play was played by many performers and interpreted by many play writers and theatre directors. One of the most remarkable interpretations of Brechts masterpiece is George C. Wolfs play which forces people to think about the eternal values and the horrors of war which should be stopped on the Earth and in each persons heart. The purpose of the present paper is to reveal the great power of the play which is aimed at revealing the filthy nature of war.

The theme of the play

The Brechts play depicts several episodes of the main heroines life during the Thirty Years War. The plays structure is linear since there is always a definite time reference in each scene. For instance the play opens up with certain year identification: Spring, 1624 (Brecht 23).

The main character of the play is Mother Courage, a canteen woman who tries to trade to survive during the war. She has three children, two sons Eilif and Swiss Cheese, and a daughter, Kattrin. Mother Courage is a strong woman who has to live in a very difficult time. She loses her children because of the war but still tries to move on.

The plays main idea and the way it is revealed

Brecht reveals cruelty of death and senselessness of war depicting the poor woman losing her children. In this play he reflects the events of the real life which he could witness since so many women were wailing over their children. Brechts main idea, the horror and foolishness of war is especially vivid in the scene where Mother Courage is singing over her daughters body.

The sorrow of one mother reveals the tragedy of many countries. Of course, not only the plot makes it one of the greatest plays. Any detail of this work is thoughtful and meaningful, even silence is always an emphasis of a feeing or a certain atmosphere.

Every word is very precise and serves to create the necessary effect. For instance, Mother Courage always uses really simple language and describes really terrible events as if it was not a big deal. Thus, she speaks about her going through bombardment as if it is absolutely logical and simple to save her products (bread) under bombs: They were going moldy, what else could I do?(Brecht 25).

So, every word or pause drives a deep image of horrible war into viewers mind. The canteen wagon itself impacts greatly the viewers since it creates an image of unsettled life of ordinary people facing danger every minute of their lives. There is no much setting but it is as precise as the verbal means. Thus, the wagon speaks louder than even performers can.

The Public Theatre interpretation of Brechts Mother Courage and Her Children

As far as the stage interpretations of the play are concerned it is necessary to point out that the play is quite easy to put on stage. Brecht though everything over to every tiny detail: the plot, the themes, characters. It may seem that it is not so easy to perform such epic play, especially it is very hard for the cast. However, the emotions evoked by the play inspire everyone to perform in the best possible way and reveal the main idea of the play.

A good example of such great work is the Public Theatre (New York 2006) interpretation of Brechts Mother Courage and Her Children. George C. Wolf made a really great play managing to feel Brecht ideas and create the necessary atmosphere. The context of the modern life, where the war is still present, the contemporary society shares Brechts beliefs about the war. Meryl Streep who performed in the play (Mother Courage) was inspired by the play and agreed to participate in the project at once.

In the film, Theatre of War, she said that she thought of those women who were still losing their children and she had no hesitations as for the participation. Her performance proves that she was totally committed to performance since she succeeded to create unforgettable vital image of Mother Courage. Her song over Kattrin is really heartfelt and touching.

The value of the interpretation of 2006

Perhaps, such dedication made this interpretation not only a very successful play but a genuine masterpiece. To my mind, George C. Wolf created the interpretation which could flatter the author. First of all, Wolf managed to reveal the atmosphere of Brechts work and the main idea of the play.

The performance in the Public Theatre was a precise reflection of the main purpose of Brechts work since every detail was thought over. Thus, the precision of both Brecht and Wolf reminds people about the eternal values of humanity and the horrors of the war in peoples hearts.

Work Cited

Brecht, B. Mother Courage and Her Children: A Chronicle of the Thirty Years War. New York: Grove Press, 1991.

Brechts Mother Courage and Her Children is an eternal creation

Bertolt Brechts Mother Courage and Her Children is one of the greatest plays of the 20^th century. It raises essential issues which any person should try to respond. Being written during the most horrible war in the history of humanity it cannot but maintain its importance throughout times.

Of course, this play was played by many performers and interpreted by many play writers and theatre directors. One of the most remarkable interpretations of Brechts masterpiece is George C. Wolfs play which forces people to think about the eternal values and the horrors of war which should be stopped on the Earth and in each persons heart. The purpose of the present paper is to reveal the great power of the play which is aimed at revealing the filthy nature of war.

The theme of the play

The Brechts play depicts several episodes of the main heroines life during the Thirty Years War. The plays structure is linear since there is always a definite time reference in each scene. For instance the play opens up with certain year identification: Spring, 1624 (Brecht 23).

The main character of the play is Mother Courage, a canteen woman who tries to trade to survive during the war. She has three children, two sons Eilif and Swiss Cheese, and a daughter, Kattrin. Mother Courage is a strong woman who has to live in a very difficult time. She loses her children because of the war but still tries to move on.

The plays main idea and the way it is revealed

Brecht reveals cruelty of death and senselessness of war depicting the poor woman losing her children. In this play he reflects the events of the real life which he could witness since so many women were wailing over their children. Brechts main idea, the horror and foolishness of war is especially vivid in the scene where Mother Courage is singing over her daughters body.

The sorrow of one mother reveals the tragedy of many countries. Of course, not only the plot makes it one of the greatest plays. Any detail of this work is thoughtful and meaningful, even silence is always an emphasis of a feeing or a certain atmosphere.

Every word is very precise and serves to create the necessary effect. For instance, Mother Courage always uses really simple language and describes really terrible events as if it was not a big deal. Thus, she speaks about her going through bombardment as if it is absolutely logical and simple to save her products (bread) under bombs: They were going moldy, what else could I do?(Brecht 25).

So, every word or pause drives a deep image of horrible war into viewers mind. The canteen wagon itself impacts greatly the viewers since it creates an image of unsettled life of ordinary people facing danger every minute of their lives. There is no much setting but it is as precise as the verbal means. Thus, the wagon speaks louder than even performers can.

The Public Theatre interpretation of Brechts Mother Courage and Her Children

As far as the stage interpretations of the play are concerned it is necessary to point out that the play is quite easy to put on stage. Brecht though everything over to every tiny detail: the plot, the themes, characters. It may seem that it is not so easy to perform such epic play, especially it is very hard for the cast. However, the emotions evoked by the play inspire everyone to perform in the best possible way and reveal the main idea of the play.

A good example of such great work is the Public Theatre (New York 2006) interpretation of Brechts Mother Courage and Her Children. George C. Wolf made a really great play managing to feel Brecht ideas and create the necessary atmosphere. The context of the modern life, where the war is still present, the contemporary society shares Brechts beliefs about the war. Meryl Streep who performed in the play (Mother Courage) was inspired by the play and agreed to participate in the project at once.

In the film, Theatre of War, she said that she thought of those women who were still losing their children and she had no hesitations as for the participation. Her performance proves that she was totally committed to performance since she succeeded to create unforgettable vital image of Mother Courage. Her song over Kattrin is really heartfelt and touching.

The value of the interpretation of 2006

Perhaps, such dedication made this interpretation not only a very successful play but a genuine masterpiece. To my mind, George C. Wolf created the interpretation which could flatter the author. First of all, Wolf managed to reveal the atmosphere of Brechts work and the main idea of the play.

The performance in the Public Theatre was a precise reflection of the main purpose of Brechts work since every detail was thought over. Thus, the precision of both Brecht and Wolf reminds people about the eternal values of humanity and the horrors of the war in peoples hearts.

Work Cited

Brecht, B. Mother Courage and Her Children: A Chronicle of the Thirty Years War. New York: Grove Press, 1991.

Introduction

In modern English, there are many words with a deep meaning that are sometimes used without proper thinking. Courage can be listed among such words because in some cases, it is applied to individuals who engage in risky behaviors that are not related to worthy goals and beliefs. This essay argues that courage is the ability to overcome fears and doubts to do something necessary and meaningful that can have different situation-specific sources.

To describe the meaning of the word courage, it is possible to summarize different peoples experiences related to this concept. This strategy allows understanding any word in the context of dissimilar situations taking place in real life, thus adding depth to the analysis. In general, having courage can be understood as demonstrating an ability to stay strong in any circumstances. However, particular verbal subtleties associated with the term may vary depending on specific cases.

Main body

In his work devoted to psychological health issues and mental suffering associated with schizoaffective disorder, Colori provides an interesting definition of the term in question (703). It encapsulates both common understandings of being courageous and the context-specific meaning of the word associated with the social burden of mental illnesses (Colori 703). Presenting the memories about the worst periods of his disease and living a life that was very dark and empty, Colori defines courage as the ability to face something that can potentially be damaging, which aligns with the terms common definitions (704). However, to make his thoughts more specific, the author adds that courage is something that always has a source, and he knows it since his courage was fuelled by his faith in a better future (Colori 704).

Personally, I totally agree with the point about having a source, and from my experience, the sources of courage and mental strength are not permanent and universal. For instance, when I was about six years old, I managed to protect my younger friends from a bully who was four years my senior, and my parents said that I had the courage to stand up for others despite my young age.

As a child, I did not think about such terms and their meanings, but now, this example helps me to realize that courage can be understood as an ability to overcome fear and take steps that are the most appropriate from a moral standpoint. As a mentally ill person, Colori drew courage from his aspirations for a better life, whereas in my case, I had to conquer my fear because there was nobody else to protect the youngest children (704). Based on that, the comprehensive definition of courage should explain that it can have case-specific sources.

Applying the method of comparison and contrast is another way to better understand the term. The word courage has a variety of synonyms, the majority of which refer to personality traits that people usually mention in a positive context. Since it relates to the ability to do something despite fear, doubts, and even threats, the discussed term is close in meaning to bravery, audaciousness, manfulness, fortitude, and similar nouns.

These words are among the first associations with courage, and the fact that all of them are typically used to characterize a person or an action in a positive way allows making conclusions about the perceptions of the term in question. Although the listed words can also be used in ironic jokes to highlight some individuals lack of mental strength, the term being discussed encourages people to think about something that can save the world.

There are also numerous words that convey the opposite meaning, thus highlighting positive associations with the term being analyzed. The word courage is drastically different from such terms as cowardice, timidity, or faint-heartedness. All of them can be used to describe people who do not have enough internal resources to overcome fear and do something necessary but dangerous. However, it needs to be said that some concepts are mistakenly regarded as being close in meaning.

For instance, in some contexts, courage can be associated with recklessness, and their meanings seem to be quite similar if no attention is paid to such components as the key motivating factor. In their work, Gukiina et al. cite Shelps definition of courage, according to which it can be understood as the ability to act meaningfully despite fear and associated threats (20). The degree to which actions are meaningful presents the key detail explaining the difference between courage and its quasi-synonyms. To some extent, both recklessness and courage involve looking away from the dangerous consequences of certain actions, but only the latter is related to justified risks and the presence of higher purposes.

Conclusion

To sum it up, courage can be understood as a persons ability to master fear and doubts to fulfill a meaningful goal and take risks that will pay off and lead to positive changes. Also, it needs to be recognized that courage can have different sources depending on particular situations. These sources can range from peoples willingness to cope with mental health issues and return to normal life to the urgent need to defend those who cannot stand up for themselves for some reason.

Works Cited

Colori, Steve. Fear, Faith, Hope, and Courage. Schizophrenia Bulletin, vol. 44, no. 4, 2016, pp. 703-705.

Gukiina, Joshua, et al. Organizational Virtuousness: The Customers Perspective. International Journal on Customer Relations, vol. 5, no. 2, 2017, pp. 18-36.

The difference between courage and bravery is minimal but significant. Though the two words are often used as part of similar sentences they actually relate to slightly different actions and circumstances. Today we’re going to help you get to the bottom of this word debate and finally give you the understanding you need to be able to use them as part of your written and spoken language freely and effectively.

Definition Of Courage

Courage is: ‘Displaying strength when faced with grief, pain or anguish. Or the ability to do something even when one is afraid.’

That probably sounds a little bit like bravery, but we’ll now break down the minor details that set the two apart. The problem with courage vs bravery is that you actually need one in order to be able to use the other. This is why there is so much wide spread confusion.

Courage is a foundation. You need courage to be able to face something that you don’t like in the first place. Courage is what leads to you deciding to take some kind of action, and it can relate to any circumstance that you personally struggle to deal with. Before you display bravery, you first need courage to place yourself in a position that may then call for bravery to be displayed. To further help you separate the difference between bravery vs courage we’ll now analyse the exact meaning of bravery.

Definition Of Bravery

Bravery is: ‘Behaviour that is courageous in nature, or having a brave character.’

As you can see the definition itself doesn’t really help us to separate the two words much. However, the circumstances where either word can be effectively used do as we’ll now discuss.

Bravery implies that someone is faced with a risky / dangerous situation that they need to overcome. Through willingly approaching and taking a situation like this head on the person would then be displaying bravery. Though they would need courage in order to place themselves in the situation in the first place, to be able to overcome it successfully they would need to actively display bravery. Though similar, this helps us to understand where the difference lies.

There isn’t necessarily and risk of danger associated with a situation that requires a person to be courageous, but there is always a risk of danger or a threat to personal wellbeing associated with displaying an act of bravery. One (courage) establishes the foundation on which we can then choose to display the other (bravery.) The first is a prerequisite for the second. Though almost the same, one is ultimately a by product of another.

Main Differences Between Courage Vs Bravery

We’re now going to effectively summarise the differences between these two words with a quick reference table. The aim of this table is to display key differences that you can review with a quick glance any time you find yourself confused about this subject in the future.

• Danger Not always displayed in dangerous situations Displayed in situations that involve danger
• Which comes first? Courage comes before bravery Bravery follows courage
• Characteristics Mental or moral strength A quality displayed by a person
• Fear Courage implies the presence of fear Bravery implies a lack of fear
• Examples It’s courageous to admit when you’ve lied His bravery in battle was admired for hundreds of years

Though they do not entail all of the key differences and examples that one might find when studying the two words, you’ve definitely got more than enough information above to gain a deeper understanding of how they weave into our everyday language and circumstances.

Conclusion

All of the necessary ingredients to help you to separate courage vs bravery have now been laid out for you to effectively understand and make practical use of them as part of written and spoken language.

Just try to remember that courage can be used to face any difficult scenario, whereas bravery means that a person is overcoming danger. This key area alone serves as an easy to remember reminder of their differing natures.

Like Thomas Edison once said, Many of life’s failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up. It’s not about the amount of courage and perseverance someone has, it’s about what and how they use it. Perseverance is accomplishing a task successfully despite how difficult it was.

For example in Fahrenheit 451, Guy Montag(protagonist) goes through some obstacles throughout his life. Guy Montag lives in the future where books are illegal. It’s his job as a fireman of 10 years (where in that particular day in age to start fires) to go to people’s houses who have books and burn the books. Along the Guy meets a new girl named Clarrise who soon later becomes friends with Montag. One day after Guys walk and talk with Clarrise, Montag discovers his wife Mildred had overdosed on sleeping pills. The 2 technicians come and clean her blood and pump her stomach of the pills and soon after she is up and feeling better. The reason the technicians come and not a real doctor or nurse is because this is a common problem and there is no need for them to make a blank trip for something minor. Clarrise asks Montag questions that make him really sit back and think which is evident that her and her family read/have books because of how intelligent she is. Montag has a secret of his own, everytime they answer to the alarm to go burn books he takes one. He has 10 books and has taken 2 books per year for the past 10 years ( 20 books) . One day they answer a call to an elderly lady house and when they discover the books, Montag finds one that stands out to him. It’s the bible. The lady got so upset that she could not save her books so she burned herself and her books ultimately killing herself. Fast forward a bit and Montag is searching for a tutor to help him understand the books and the meaning behind the books. He runs into Professor Faber, who he confesses that he owns the bible and he needs help understanding it better. Faber swiftly denies him, so in anger Montag starts ripping the bible up. After seeing this Faber agrees to help Montag . If Montag did not have the courage to ask for help and to take the books because he wanted to expand his knowledge, he would have been brainwashed just like everybody else.

Another example of mine would be the movie BirdBox. In the movie Sandra Bullock’s character was the main character and her main goal was to help her child, Boy, and a child of her friend who passed away, Girl, to get to the safe sanctuary. During this Journey the endure this malevolent force that if you don’t wear your blindfold, it would take over your mind and make you either fatally harm others or yourself. Malorie, alongside her love interest Tom did everything in their power to make sure that Boy and Girl made it to safety. Without her perseverance and courage to go above and beyond to make sure Boy and Girl were safe, then there is no telling what could have happened to them. In one part of the movie, Malorie has to guide them through the river, but they are about to hit a rough spot and she needs one of them to help guide her through through it. She looks at Boy then looks at Girl then decides that neither one of them will do it, and that she will just navigate it from a feeling because she doesn’t want to put to take their blindfolds off which is the only thing protecting them from the malevolent evil force. Tom unfortunately was killed trying to save Malorie and the kids which shows he had a great amount of courage to risk his life to save his little family. Malorie in my opinion showed the most courage and perseverance because in tough situations, she didn’t fold nor cracked under pressure. She just found the most logical way to stay safe and pushed through each obstacle which in my eyes shows the most courage and perseverance.

My last example would be the Netflix series Lucifer. This show is about the devil (Lucifer Morningstar) who decides to take a vacation from hell and moves to Los Angeles then later on opens a nightclub. He then runs into Detective Chloe Decker who de draws a Strong love interest in. Lucifer then becomes Detectives’ assistant down at the preciet and Chile’s Ex-husband (who also works there) doesn’t quite take a liking to Lucifer in the beginning. Lucifer is accompanied by his brother Amenadiel and Mazikeen from hell on his vacation and they try to talk him into going back, but he is determined to take his vacation and eventually Pursue his love interest with Chile Decker. Lucifer shows courage to me because he was brave enough in the end to confess his love for Chole in the end and so does she eventually also which shows courage on her end as well. He demonstrates perseverance in a way that on the last episode of the last season how he decided to go back to hell even though he wanted to stay on earth with Chloe, but he knew he had a job and responsibilities to take care of , so he had to go handle that. Chloe shows perseverance how towards the last episode she finally confessed her love for him even though she knew there was no way he could stay with her, but she just had to release that burden of holding on her love for him.

In conclusion, courage and perseverance is not measured in the amount you have, is measured in how you decided to act with the amount you have. If your in a difficult situation always remember, not all people have the courage to do what you do, so be you no matter what . Nobody can be you, except you . Which means your courage and perseverance, no one can match it. Go be adventurous and take chances. Have the willpower to do what makes you happy. If it doesn’t make you happy, then it isn’t for you. It takes courage to fail but perseverance to take that failure, learn from it, and turn that into something positive. Courage and perseverance are the main 2 aspects of what make each person their own unique person in my opinion.

A virtue is a character trait of fine character. It’s a habit, excellently-rooted in its owner-something that, as we believe, goes all the way around, unlike a behavior like being a addiction to observe, predict, appreciate, consider, need, choose, act and react in some meaningful ways.

Simply having a virtue means to become an individual with a certain complex mindset. An important element of this approach is the sincere acceptance of a distinguishing set of causes as explanations for actions. Maintaining value is a matter of perspective.

To completely accept such a tendency is to embody an exceptional total or perfect quality, and there are several ways of falling short of this standard. Some people who would truly be categorized as reasonably good, and certainly far better than others who can honestly be characterized as greedy, self-centered, and arrogant. In most cases, therefore, anyone who is honest or kind, and particularly those who are demanding, can still be statically tainted by snobbery, inclined to be disappointing with their ancestors and less than decent with the wrong language.

In this essay we will talk about one of the virtues which is courage. As we pray to the God every day, we desire the power to make things better. We are asking for the courage as things are hard to improve. Nevertheless, we leave in time and thus change can happen. When a person is courageous, there’s no issue of the psychological aspect of panic, since there is no reason to avoid or escape things. The say that the courageous person is brave seems unjustified. This comment would make it a virtue in cases that are fearful of others to have a non-responsive automated nervous system. It is necessary to address fear regardless of circumstances which measure bravery. The apprehension of physical courage is linked to bodily injuries or death. Also it is essential to encourage physical courage, generating what is commonly referred to as the ‘courage born of terror,’ for fear of rejection, reprobation, and other sufferings. Or they’ll accept that they are weak and worry that they will be viewed as such by others. Character intensity can also be related to fear of other people’s differing views.

Having kids across from peers, for instance, is a normal feeling. But social courage obliges or induces an individual to just do what he or she feels is right by fear of the consequences. It should be noted that perhaps the person who wants to take the opportunity, not an observer, decides the ‘correct.’ Danger of job loss, fear of poverty, fear of family loss, fear of mockery, fear of community.

Courage is an Difficult Topic. People will always value, even admire, courage regardless of the intent or purpose under which it is portrayed, No Matter what anyone else says. Courage is an important political quality, and anyone engaged in politics should be truly interested. However, if only because its citizens ‘ courage is vital to any nation’s survival, courage is the quality that countries honour the most of any nation, even morality (Rabieh,2006).

ANCIENT BACKGROUND OF COURAGE

The Laches of Plato and the Nicomachean Ethics of Aristotle are two key references to classical courage views. Unsurprisingly, any effort to objectively equate the views of Plato and Aristotle on courage is difficult by the fact that Plato’s views on the subject are not specifically and consistently revealed (Zavaliy, 2014).

According to Kateb (2004), Schematically one could conclude that Plato teaches that if courage is to be a virtue, it should be closely linked to the deepest convictions about shame and, therefore, social honor of a person. Shame must be felt when in the eyes of others, one appears like such a coward. The battlefield is the main sight of courage. And fear of the body may well be a chronic residual courage accompaniment. By comparison, revising concepts of courage in the way I suggest will imply, in turn, questioning the learning of Plato on such issues. Aristotle brings to Plato’s philosophy originality and description What comes out for certain reasons is the Characterization of the optimistic (Kateb,2004).

Aristotle, like Plato, was primarily concerned with courage of the battlefield. Yet while he is responsive to the part played by bodily fear as well as the fear of being called a coward, in Nicomachean Ethics he offers a rather more detailed description of what we could consider the non-instrumental meaning of courage.

According to Rabieh (2006), upholding courage is not just going via the process of an ancient system that has no place in our modern world. Reports of extraordinary courage are still stirring ordinary minds and bodies. We were, of course, moved to hear the tales of First Lieutenant John Robert Fox, a posthumous recipient of the Medal of Honor who directed airstrikes during World War II (Rabieh,2006). These evidence suggests that in the modern period, given the acculturation of cooperative values by liberals, respect for bravery remains. Yet that might not have been so obvious until recently, because although stable liberal democracies seldom require wide-ranging demonstrations of heroic courage and thus rarely experience their full strength.

THE FEMINIST CRITIQUE OF COURAGE

Criticism of conventional heroic courage proposed by some feminist theorists is the most common contemporary commitment to courage. Though this analysis does not thoroughly address the phenomenon, it poses obstacles that the serious scholar of courage should face. And we switch to it before quickly remembering contemporary liberal theorists ‘ lack of courage (Rabieh,2006).

COURAGE AND LIBERALISM

This may seem surprising that somehow the contemporary figures are feminist theorists who address the issue of courage most seriously. Given the complexity of courage in maintaining liberal political life, we would anticipate in seeing attentiveness given to it in the practice of contemporary liberal theorists, especially in the action of those who desire clarity as well as the contextualisation of liberal virtues (Rabieh, 2006).

Reference

1. Kateb, G. (2004). Courage as a Virtue. Social Research, 71(1), 39–72. Retrieved from https://search-ebscohost-com.ezproxy.myucwest.ca/login.aspx?direct=true&db=bth&AN=12922716&site=eds-live
2. Rabieh, L. R. (2006). Plato and the Virtue of Courage. Baltimore: Johns Hopkins University Press. Retrieved from https://search-ebscohost-com.ezproxy.myucwest.ca/login.aspx?direct=true&db=nlebk&AN=215905&site=eds-live
3. Zavaliy, A. G., & Aristidou, M. (2014). Courage: A Modern Look at an Ancient Virtue. Journal of Military Ethics, 13(2), 174–189. https://doi-org.ezproxy.myucwest.ca/10.1080/15027570.2014.943037

Growing up as a kid, we as a whole have times where we looked up to those with strength, toughness, and those with no fear in their paths. While figuring out how to face bigotry, foul play, and analysis, Jem and Scout find that a large number of her role models are exhibiting bravery in various manners. Many people in To Kill a Mockingbird mistake courage for strength and believe that mental fortitude is the desire or ability to utilize force to abrogate any sort of fear that comes in their way. From the outset, the youngsters see mental fortitude as a show of masculinity, such as contacting the side of the Radley house or always accepting a dare. Throughout the story, Jem and Scout can discover that genuine courage isn’t about your physical capacities, but the internal desire to succeed and make the right decision, regardless of the consequences of your choice.

Dill incites Jem’s bravery early in To Kill A Mockingbird by attempting to get Boo Radley out of the house. In spite of the dread, Jem acknowledges the dare simply because ‘in all his life, he’s never declined a dare.’ Three days on, Dill changes Jem’s challenge by revealing to him he has just to contact the front entryway of the Radleys. Alleviated that Jem would now have the option to exhibit his courage even more viably, he does it rapidly and effectively. Jem’s comprehension of fearlessness, generally, is that it should show manliness. Indeed, Jem claims that ‘sometimes,[Scout] acts so much like a girl, [and feels that] it’s mortifying’ when she places a tire in Radley’s front yard and he needs to bring it and come back with it. In this manner, acting like a young lady is, as per Jem, is an indication of weakness as opposed to mental fortitude. Moreover, both Scout and Jem compare Atticus to other dads around the neighbourhood. They think their father is exhausting and old, as he ‘never went hunting or played football. ‘ As Atticus answers the children why he’s so old, Jem is’ reflected on his abilities and manliness’ The expression ‘manliness’ appears to have been related to the kid’s feeling of courage.

Mrs Dubose is a courageous lady who rises from her fears, battles her addictions, and kicks the bucket without a drug in her veins. Through the eyes of Jem and Scout, Mrs Dubose is ‘Plain hell’, however, it takes her passing, to show them how brave she was. Mrs Dubose lived alone in sickness for a long time. Just by confronting each day off alone exhibits courage. Moreover, she chooses at her old age to conquer her morphine addiction to accomplishing her objective to ‘die free.’ She utilizes Jem’s readings to divert her mind whereas she increasingly reduces her doses of morphine to that she’d been medically dependent for years and from which she was determined to free herself before her death. She shows courage in confronting the pain of withdrawal despite the fact that she is ‘licked before [she] begin[s].’ She succeeds in overcoming her addiction, and was able to ‘[die] beholden to nothing and no one.’ Witnessing Mrs. Dubose ‘[win] each of the ninety-eight pounds of her’ , and her willingness to face her illness head-on in spite of knowing that it will end her life, Jem and Scout obtains a reasonable comprehension of true courage, and that it is to stand up for what is right despite the risk or sacrifices of doing so.

Atticus Finch doesn’t care less for criminal law, yet he accepts the arrangement to Tom Robinson’s case — even though he is ‘licked a hundred years before [he] began’, and it is highly unlikely that he is going to win the case. Taking the case is a hazardous one for Atticus; he understands that huge numbers of the whites living in Maycomb wish to see Tom Robinson, an African American accused of ambushing and beating a white woman, executed. The townsfolk turn their resentment toward Atticus for protecting Tom, but that doesn’t keep Atticus from doing all that he can to ensure that Tom gets a reasonable preliminary. Atticus fully understands Tom’s genuineness, and remembering that any reasonable individual could look at the verification for the circumstance, ‘review without passion the evidence [they] have heard’, and comprehend that Tom didn’t commit any crime, but the racial biases of Maycomb shield most whites from doing as such. It takes courage for Atticus to make the best choice, despite understanding that he will distance himself and his family from their one of a kind town at the same time. The children realize that courage is certainly not a physical thing such as shooting a mad dog, but rather on the intellectual side and is about being able to stand up for what you believe is right.

The kids, Scout and Jem grow up physically, yet also rationally through the span of the three years of the novel. They start the novel with a firm and uncomplicated thought of what is right and what is wrong, believing that courage is the absence of fear. By the end of the novel, they’ve both lost their innocence, and have gone to an increasingly unpredictable perspective on how individuals and the world works. They acquire knowledge of what true courage is, and that it is not a man with a gun in his hands, but a willingness to persevere despite it. As the kids proceed to develop and advance past the close relationship of the book, they will preserve their confidence in what is morally justified and will continue to stand up and fight for it.