“Simply enduring, and enduring with pride—that too was heroism.”
- January 14, 1925 – November 25, 1970
- Born in Japan
- Novelist, playwright, critic, political activist
Japanese
「ただ耐えること、しかも矜恃を以て耐えること、それも亦、ヒロイズムだった。」
English
“Simply enduring, and enduring with pride—that too was heroism.”
Explanation
In this quote, Mishima presents endurance as a form of heroism, emphasizing that the ability to withstand suffering or adversity with pride and dignity is itself a noble act. By focusing on pride, Mishima suggests that enduring hardship is not just about survival or passivity, but about maintaining one’s honor and self-respect in the face of adversity. This idea aligns with Mishima’s recurring themes of honor, strength, and the noble suffering that he saw as central to the human experience. Heroism, in this view, is not always marked by action or achievement, but by the quiet, steadfast resilience of an individual who endures life’s hardships without sacrificing their sense of self.
Mishima’s reflection on heroism here challenges the conventional understanding of what makes someone a hero. He expands the definition of heroism to include not just action or victory, but also the strength to endure silently and with dignity. For Mishima, pride is essential in this act of endurance—he suggests that the true test of a person’s character is how they withstand suffering without losing their integrity. This idea connects to Mishima’s exploration of internal fortitude as a virtue in a world that often values more external expressions of strength or success.
In a modern context, Mishima’s view of endurance as heroism can be seen as relevant in a society that often celebrates immediate results and quick fixes, rather than recognizing the quiet strength needed to persevere through life’s challenges. In a world that sometimes prizes outward success over internal resilience, Mishima’s words remind us that true heroism can lie in the ability to endure life’s sufferings with dignity, pride, and an unwavering sense of self-respect. This resonates with those who face long-term struggles—whether personal, social, or political—and continue to stand firm, not for recognition, but for the integrity of their own spirit.
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