“The principal act of courage is to endure and withstand dangers doggedly rather than to attack them.”
- 1225 – March 7, 1274
- Born in the Kingdom of Sicily (Italy)
- Theologian, philosopher
- A representative figure of scholasticism, who systematized the relationship between the doctrines of the Catholic Church and reason through his masterpiece, the Summa Theologica
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Quote
“The principal act of courage is to endure and withstand dangers doggedly rather than to attack them.”
Explanation
Thomas Aquinas, in this quote, redefines the essence of courage as the ability to endure and face dangers with steadfastness rather than aggressively attacking them. According to Aquinas, true courage lies in the capacity to persevere under pressure and to confront fears or challenges without giving in, even when it involves a prolonged struggle. Endurance in the face of adversity often requires more inner strength than a sudden burst of aggression. For Aquinas, courage is about maintaining resolve and holding one’s ground, particularly when circumstances are daunting.
Aquinas’s understanding of courage was influenced by Aristotelian philosophy, which emphasized the virtue of the golden mean—a balance between recklessness and cowardice. In his time, courage was often portrayed as heroic action on the battlefield, but Aquinas saw it as something deeper and more nuanced. He believed that the true test of bravery is not always in the visible acts of confrontation but often in the quiet determination to withstand hardship without surrendering to fear or despair. This perspective highlights that courage is as much about inner strength as it is about outward action.
In today’s world, Aquinas’s insight into courage can apply to the challenges of daily life, where the ability to endure difficulties is often more necessary than engaging in direct confrontation. Whether dealing with a long-term illness, navigating personal hardships, or persevering through professional setbacks, enduring adversity with patience and resilience is a profound act of courage. Aquinas’s view encourages us to see courage not only as heroic action but as the steadfast resolve to keep moving forward even when the path is difficult. This kind of courage often goes unnoticed, but it is fundamental to overcoming life’s challenges with dignity and strength.
