“Live as brave men; and if fortune is adverse, front its blows with brave hearts.”
- January 3, 106 BC – December 7, 43 BC
- Roman
- Orator, Philosopher, Statesman, Lawyer, Author
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Quote
“Live as brave men; and if fortune is adverse, front its blows with brave hearts.”
Explanation
Cicero calls for a life of courage and dignity, urging us to face the trials of fate with resolute and noble hearts. To “live as brave men” means to live with honor, principle, and strength, not only in times of peace but especially when fortune turns against us. He emphasizes that true character is revealed not in comfort, but in adversity, where bravery becomes a moral necessity.
This sentiment aligns with Cicero’s Stoic-inspired belief that external circumstances do not define a person’s worth—it is inner virtue and steadfastness that matter most. In the turbulent political climate of late Republican Rome, Cicero often reflected on the unpredictability of fortune and the importance of meeting hardship with reasoned courage and unwavering commitment to duty.
In modern life, his words continue to inspire resilience. Whether facing personal loss, social upheaval, or failure, Cicero reminds us that bravery is not the absence of fear, but the will to confront difficulty with resolve and integrity. His quote champions the enduring human ideal: that we must live not for ease, but for courage, and meet misfortune not with despair, but with brave hearts.
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