Single Idea 5224

[catalogued under 23. Ethics / C. Virtue Theory / 3. Virtues / d. Courage]

Full Idea

In the strict sense of the word the courageous man will be one who is fearless in the face of an honourable death, or of some sudden threat of death.

Gist of Idea

Strictly speaking, a courageous person is one who does not fear an honourable death

Source

Aristotle (Nicomachean Ethics [c.334 BCE], 1115a33)

Book Reference

Aristotle: 'Ethics (Nicomachean)', ed/tr. ThomsonJ A K/TredennickH [Penguin 1976], p.128


A Reaction

I.e. one is rightly afraid of a DIShonourable death. This seems to be more of a touchstone than a definition. Presumably one can show true courage in the face of pain as well as of death.