Courage
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8.Courage in war and combat
8a.Holding one's post and refusing to flee
See also: War and Peace 8c · Chivalry 3b · Honor 5a
Homer, The OdysseyVol. 22
- p. 157–158Odysseus praises Neoptolemus' bravery in battle and his unblanched calm inside the wooden horse when other leaders trembled.read · scan
- p. 217Odysseus, disguised, says he would rather die fighting the wooers alone than endure their outrages; Telemachus notes one man's weakness against a multitude.read · scan
- p. 281Telemachus says he would rather die than watch such deeds.read · scan
- p. 300–301Four men stand breathing fury against many good warriors; Odysseus is glad when Athene arrives as Mentor.read · scan
Confucius, The Sayings of ConfuciusVol. 44
- p. 20Meng Chih-fan covering the retreat modestly denies that courage kept him behind.read · scan
The Book of JobVol. 44
- p. 135The horse is not dismayed and turns not back from the sword.read · scan
Plato, The Apology of SocratesVol. 2
- p. 16Achilles despised danger and death; a good man holds his post and thinks only of disgrace, not of death.read · scan
- p. 17He compares holding his post in battle with not deserting his philosophic mission through fear of death.read · scan
Virgil, The AeneidVol. 13
- p. 109Aeneas, fired by love of country and honor, resolves to die in arms rather than flee.read · scan
- p. 113Trojan guards undaunted hold the gate, renewing courage to face death.read · scan
- p. 117Aeneas resolves to fight to the death and not to fall unavenged.read · scan
- p. 305Nisus returns to seek his captured friend and resolves to fight against odds.read · scan
- p. 316Turnus fights fiercely, while fear and despair drive the Trojans to flight.read · scan
- p. 321–325The few defenders, like young Haemon, stand resolved to die despite danger.read · scan
- p. 325Pallas says they face mortal foes with equal strength and no retreat, so must hew their way through.read · scan
- p. 406–412Turnus resolves to rush into the foes and die bravely rather than flee.read · scan
Plutarch, AristidesVol. 12
- p. 94Amompharetus, calling withdrawal flight, refuses to leave his post and casts a stone as his vote for battle.read · scan
- p. 95Spartans endure wounds without resisting; dying Callicrates laments only that he died without action.read · scan
- p. 95Pausanias asks that Greeks at least perish showing courage; Spartans then fight like a fierce animal to the death.read · scan
Plutarch, AlcibiadesVol. 12
- p. 135He rushes the gate with thirty men, unable to endure defeat or flight.read · scan
Plutarch, CaesarVol. 12
- p. 276Soldiers like Acilius and Scaeva fight on through terrible wounds; Granius Petro kills himself rather than accept mercy.read · scan
- p. 300–301Crassinius vows to win nobly, charges first and dies; Pompey's cavalry cowardly fear for their faces.read · scan
Plutarch, AntonyVol. 12
- p. 371A wounded veteran begs Antony to fight on land where soldiers know how to die or win.read · scan
Marcus Aurelius, The Meditations of Marcus AureliusVol. 2
- p. 248Socrates' words: a good man should not compute hazard of life or death but hold his post, fearing baseness of desertion.read · scan
BeowulfVol. 49
- p. 84–85Old Ongentheow, wounded, feels no fear and repays the blow before falling.read · scan
- p. 88–91Beowulf is remembered as one who stood stout in the iron-shower of arrows.read · scan
The Destruction of Dá Derga's HostelVol. 49
- p. 244–245Champions fight against overwhelming numbers and return wounded, heroic deeds of valour.read · scan
- p. 247–248Conall shows his hundred and fifty wounds as proof he did not desert his lord; his father says fleeing alive is cowardly.read · scan
Songs from the Elder EddaVol. 49
- p. 409–412Hogni fights fiercely and Gunnar defiantly refuses to ransom his life, demanding Hogni's heart as the price.read · scan
- p. 429–430Brothers accept death, standing on Goth corpses.read · scan
The Song of RolandVol. 49
- p. 109–110Ganelon draws his sword before Marsil, refusing to leave his message unsaid or die unavenged.read · scan
- p. 117–119Roland accepts the perilous rear-guard boldly.read · scan
- p. 119–121Roland and his peers volunteer to guard the rear with twenty thousand, undaunted by danger.read · scan
- p. 127–128Franks vow not to flee though vastly outnumbered; Roland resolves to fight the heathen host.read · scan
- p. 129–130Roland burns the more to fight against odds; refuses the craven counsel and vows to hold the place.read · scan
- p. 133–135Turpin and the Franks fight fearlessly, vowing none shall blench.read · scan
- p. 137–138Olivier fights on with a broken spear butt; Roland praises brave blows earning the Emperor's love.read · scan
- p. 139–140Walter, four times wounded, fights until swooning; Franks choose to flee or die and never flee.read · scan
- p. 140–142Margaris flees wounded without disgrace; valiant baron, the narrator says he would be great if Christian.read · scan
- p. 150–151Roland and Olivier resolve to fight together and die if God wills, rather than yield.read · scan
- p. 153–154Roland blows the horn until blood springs from his mouth and his temples burst.read · scan
- p. 156–157Franks fight like lions knowing no ransom; Turpin says a knight must be strong in battle or be a monk.read · scan
- p. 158–159Roland urges selling life dearly and Olivier says shame is the laggard's due; they fight on facing death.read · scan
- p. 160–161Mortally wounded, Olivier hastens to vengeance and keeps hewing at the Saracens.read · scan
- p. 161–162Walter fought the Saracens to the end, selling his life dear despite eight spear wounds.read · scan
- p. 163–164Turpin, unhorsed and wounded, says a brave warrior yields only with life and fights on.read · scan
- p. 165–166Roland will never yield alive; the heathens dare not close with him and cast javelins from afar.read · scan
- p. 179–180Roland's boast that he would fall only in front of his peers, facing the enemy.read · scan
The Story of the Volsungs and NiblungsVol. 49
- p. 263Volsung refuses to flee, vowing never to fear fire or sword; all men must die once, and he fights to the end.read · scan
- p. 269–270Sigmund and Sinfjotli make a manful stand before being overborne by numbers.read · scan
- p. 278–279Old Sigmund fights hardily as foremost of his men despite being outnumbered.read · scan
- p. 290–291Warriors counselled to be well-fed, groomed and unflinching; Lyngi refuses to flee.read · scan
- p. 303–305Sigurd says he will never flee though he is doomed, never born for blenching.read · scan
- p. 346–347Gunnar, Hogni and Gudrun fight with great stoutness, admired by all.read · scan
Jean Froissart, The Chronicles of FroissartVol. 35
- p. 29Alencon and Flanders fight long and valiantly; a page faithfully rescues his fallen master.read · scan
- p. 30–31French lords fought valiantly under their banners yet perished despite their prowess.read · scan
- p. 44–45Prince vows he will not be seen to return back from the fight.read · scan
- p. 46Guichard d'Angle and John of Saintre refuse to fly and enter the thickest press, contrasting with those who fled.read · scan
- p. 47Audley fights on badly wounded; King John fights as a good knight, and would have won had his men done as well.read · scan
- p. 73Sale fights unarmed against forty thousand, killing twelve before he is cut down.read · scan
- p. 86–87Young Douglas and the Hepbourns fight valiantly to save the banner when the Scots are nearly beaten.read · scan
- p. 91–92Thomas Waltham refuses to fly or yield, fighting on until slain, fulfilling his vow.read · scan
Traditional BalladsVol. 40
- p. 51–53William hides his mortal wound to keep riding.read · scan
- p. 89–91Douglas arms and rushes to the field despite his ominous dream.read · scan
- p. 96–98Witherington vows to fight while he can stand; Douglas praises Percy as the most courageous knight.read · scan
- p. 98–100Witherington fights on his stumps after his legs are cut off; the nobles' courage none could stain.read · scan
- p. 102–104Armstrong and his men fight to the death rather than be hanged, and he fights on though wounded.read · scan
- p. 114–116The lord goes to the fight knowing he may not return and kills nine before treachery slays him.read · scan
- p. 120–122Braikley refuses to turn back or flee against four hundred, choosing to fight and die; his kin stand with him.read · scan
- p. 166–168Little John begs to be killed rather than taken; Robin and Much refuse to abandon him and carry him a mile.read · scan
Sir Thomas Malory, The Holy GrailVol. 35
- p. 175–177Colgrevance dies fighting to save Bors.read · scan
Benvenuto Cellini, The Autobiography of Benvenuto CelliniVol. 31
- p. 263Cellini turns back, resolved to die with his young men, and Ascanio stands his ground.read · scan
Ambroise Paré, Journeys in Diverse PlacesVol. 38
- p. 29The citizens resolve to fight and die together to the last breath rather than yield.read · scan
Sir Francis Drake, Sir Francis Drake RevivedVol. 33
- p. 176Drake decides to fight through the enemy rather than retreat weary; Pedro vows to die at his captain's foot.read · scan
Miguel de Cervantes, The History of Don Quixote of the Mancha, Part IVol. 14
- p. 377–378The sentinel must stand his post fearing the enemy's mine, unable to flee.read · scan
- p. 384–385He leaps alone into the enemy's vessel and fights until taken, full of wounds.read · scan
- p. 385–387Defenders did all they could; the few could not sally against great numbers.read · scan
- p. 387Defenders fought manfully through twenty-two assaults; their valour and magnanimity are praised.read · scan
- p. 391–392Praise of the valour of soldiers who fought to the last.read · scan
Captain Walter Bigges, Drake's Great ArmadaVol. 33
- p. 250–251Captains die attempting to seize the Spanish boats before they can land.read · scan
- p. 255Sergeant-Major, killed pursuing the enemy, is lamented as wise soldier of great courage.read · scan
William Shakespeare, The Tragedy of MacbethVol. 46
- p. 321–322Macbeth and Banquo fight fiercely, disdaining Fortune, carving through to slay the rebel.read · scan
- p. 390–391Macbeth, cornered like a baited bear, fights on, refusing suicide, and kills young Siward, trusting his charmed life.read · scan
- p. 392–393Young Siward died with wounds on the front; his father wishes no fairer death for his sons.read · scan
John Eliot, Eliot's Brief NarrativeVol. 43
- p. 142The last chief of the royal line died valiantly, deserted by his men; enemies feared to kill him.read · scan
Pierre Corneille, PolyeucteVol. 26
- p. 81–84Severus risked life, became a captive to free his Emperor and fought on again.read · scan
John Dryden, All for Love; or, The World Well LostVol. 18
- p. 90–93Antony and Ventidius resolve to fight to a brave Roman death against Caesar rather than yield.read · scan
- p. 94They wish to die like lions in the toils, wounding the hunters.read · scan
Robert Burns, Poems and SongsVol. 6
- p. 122–124Maimed veteran would clatter on his stumps at the drum's sound to face a troop of hell.read · scan
James Hogg, PoemsVol. 41
- p. 768–769Bold warriors fight to death, their eyes never to open again.read · scan
John Greenleaf Whittier, PoemsVol. 42
- p. 1360–1363Besieged soldiers and families endure until rescue.read · scan
Charles Darwin, The Voyage of the BeagleVol. 29
- p. 110–111The old cacique escapes his pursuers on a bare horse, carrying his son, an admired heroic picture.read · scan
Alfred, Lord Tennyson, PoemsVol. 42
- p. 1005–1007The Light Brigade charges into the guns without dismay, obeying orders and riding to deathread · scan
- p. 1007–1008Grenville refuses to flee, choosing to fight fifty-three ships with one; declares he never turned his backread · scan
- p. 1008–1009Grenville urges 'Fight on!' through wounds and wreckage in an all-night battle against overwhelming oddsread · scan
Richard Henry Dana, Jr., Two Years Before the MastVol. 23
- p. 200The crew makes a desperate resistance against the natives after the wreck.read · scan
Frank Aretas Haskell, The Battle of GettysburgVol. 43
- p. 348Troops hold their ground under superior numbers and exhaustion.read · scan
- p. 351–352Men stand nobly, wounded silent and uncomplaining; sublime heroism pervades all as officers fall and the 1st Minnesota charges.read · scan
- p. 386–388Color sergeant rushes the wall and dies; heroes among the men lead the final charge.read · scan
Bret Harte, PoemsVol. 42
- p. 1401–1402The speaker fears his heart may grow cold in battle; the drum urges that death united is better than recreancy.read · scan
8b.The leader's courage and the rallying of men
See also: Prophecy 4c · War and Peace 8a
Homer, The OdysseyVol. 22
- p. 132–133Odysseus acts decisively and boldly to save his ship and scouts alone for signs of men.read · scan
- p. 133–135Odysseus rouses despairing men with soft words, urging them to eat since death will come only on its fated day.read · scan
Virgil, The AeneidVol. 13
- p. 178Mnestheus appeals to the strength of hand and courage of mind shown before.read · scan
- p. 293Turnus alone undaunted amid the portent, rallying his trembling troops.read · scan
- p. 316Mnestheus shames the Trojans as cowards and rallies them; Turnus resists like a lion at bay.read · scan
- p. 325Turnus rouses his men: fortune befriends the bold, and they fight for wives, sons and fathers' fame.read · scan
- p. 325Tarchon's fiery speech inflames his fearful friends to land at all hazard.read · scan
- p. 325Pallas rebukes his fleeing Arcadians, appealing to their honor and shame to turn and fight.read · scan
- p. 389Soldiers are stirred from fear to new courage and demand the fight.read · scan
- p. 389Wounded Aeneas, resolved, breaks the dart and begs to return to fight.read · scan
Plutarch, ThemistoclesVol. 12
- p. 13–15He rebukes the faint-hearted: a sword but no heart; restrains Eurybiades' flight.read · scan
Plutarch, PericlesVol. 12
- p. 45Pericles exposed himself to danger conspicuously in the battle, as did Cimon's friends who fell.read · scan
Plutarch, AristidesVol. 12
- p. 86–87He picks the most courageous countrymen to storm the island.read · scan
- p. 89–91Aristides insists place neither takes away nor gives courage; battle will show each man's worth.read · scan
Plutarch, AlcibiadesVol. 12
- p. 131He acts as a great captain, not swayed by sudden elevation to command.read · scan
- p. 133Mindarus is slain fighting valiantly; Alcibiades provokes battle with forty ships.read · scan
- p. 138–139He exhorts the people to courage and good hope.read · scan
Plutarch, CoriolanusVol. 12
- p. 152Marcius's bold sally and single-handed rush into Corioli's gate, rallying the Romans by voice and look.read · scan
- p. 154Marcius, bloody and exhausted, demands to face the best Volscian troops and says weariness is not for conquerors.read · scan
Plutarch, Comparison of Alcibiades with CoriolanusVol. 12
- p. 186Both men showed a soldier's daring and a general's skill in war, with Alcibiades' greater success earning him the title of more complete commander.read · scan
Plutarch, CaesarVol. 12
- p. 264Caesar, captive among Cilician pirates, commands them, mocks their ransom demand, and later has them crucified.read · scan
- p. 277Caesar exposes himself to every danger and hardship, enduring beyond his natural strength.read · scan
- p. 277–279Caesar charges on foot, sending away his horse until the battle is won.read · scan
- p. 279Caesar shames timorous officers, offering to go with the tenth legion alone, which rouses the army's zeal.read · scan
- p. 280Caesar seizes a buckler and forces his way to the barbarians, rescuing his army.read · scan
- p. 280–282Under Caesar's bold example the troops fight with more than human courage.read · scan
- p. 286Caesar's speed and boldness show an invincible army to the barbarians.read · scan
- p. 287The danger at Alesia shows Caesar's valor and conduct.read · scan
- p. 306Caesar forces a fleeing standard-bearer to face the enemy.read · scan
- p. 309Caesar shames his men by asking whether they will surrender him to boys.read · scan
- p. 320–321Brutus answers the terrible apparition courageously and exposes himself to all danger in battle.read · scan
Plutarch, AntonyVol. 12
- p. 323Antony scales the works first and gives continual proofs of personal valor and military conduct.read · scan
- p. 334Antony ventures all, first into the river toward hostile camp.read · scan
- p. 354Gallus fights boldly beyond the army's support, and Antony himself rescues the fugitives at the head of the third legion.read · scan
Tacitus, GermanyVol. 33
- p. 100Prince and followers strive to surpass each other in bravery.read · scan
BeowulfVol. 49
- p. 74–76Wiglaf resolves to face the fire beside his king, choosing to die with him rather than bear his shield home in shame.read · scan
- p. 76–78Wiglaf strides through flame to aid Beowulf and exhorts him to keep his glory, while the dragon attacks a third time.read · scan
The Song of RolandVol. 49
- p. 142–143Turpin exhorts Franks to think no shame, fly not, and prefer death to cowardice; they answer they are no cravens.read · scan
Jean Froissart, The Chronicles of FroissartVol. 35
- p. 9The king answers the omen boldly, cheering his men.read · scan
- p. 24–25The king's sweet speech and cheerful countenance restore courage to those dismayed.read · scan
- p. 27–28The blind King of Bohemia has his men tie their reins to his and leads them into the fight until all are slain.read · scan
- p. 29The king's message greatly encourages the prince's hard-pressed company.read · scan
- p. 42Prince urges his small company not to be abashed by numbers; Audley seeks the front to fulfil his vow.read · scan
- p. 90–91Dying Douglas asks his death be hidden so enemies not rejoice and friends not be discouraged; men rally to his cry.read · scan
Traditional BalladsVol. 40
- p. 94–96Percy urges his men to advance boldly and boasts he would meet any champion man for man.read · scan
- p. 112–114Twenty Scots and ten rout a thousand; Kinmont Willie sleeps calmly before execution and Buccleuch plunges the flooded Eden, defying Scroope.read · scan
Sir Thomas Malory, The Holy GrailVol. 35
- p. 189–190Galahad grips the sword to give the others courage.read · scan
Niccolò Machiavelli, The PrinceVol. 36
- p. 27The Duke's fire and courage and knowledge of how men must be conciliated or crushed.read · scan
Benvenuto Cellini, The Autobiography of Benvenuto CelliniVol. 31
- p. 69Contrasting Alessandro's panic, Cellini insists on performing an action worthy of a man.read · scan
- p. 70He rallies the overcome bombardiers and strives in enthusiasm to achieve the impossible.read · scan
- p. 128Cellini hides his fear and inspires the others while the necromancer trembles and the boy shrieks.read · scan
- p. 128Cellini keeps calm, tells the boy the demons are only smoke and shadow, and rallies the terrified companions.read · scan
- p. 204–207Cellini rouses the frightened Raffaello and together they slay many enemies during the sack.read · scan
- p. 379Rising from his sickbed, he takes command in fury and overcomes his men's despair.read · scan
Ambroise Paré, Journeys in Diverse PlacesVol. 38
- p. 46Captain Saint Aubin leaves his sickbed to command his company and is shot.read · scan
Sir Francis Drake, Sir Francis Drake RevivedVol. 33
- p. 135–136Drake dispels his men's fear about the town's size by deceiving them that the moon is dawn, then lands and dismounts the guns.read · scan
- p. 137–138Sudden close assault on a larger force shows the raiders' daring and their captain's bold tactics.read · scan
- p. 139Drake shames his wavering men, saying he has brought them to the mouth of the world's treasure and they may blame only themselves.read · scan
- p. 140Drake, bleeding from a leg wound, refuses to retire, judging it more honourable to risk life for the enterprise.read · scan
- p. 142–143The Spaniard grants the English had no less reason in departing than courage in attempting.read · scan
- p. 157–158Drake alone leaps ashore before the Spaniards to show he dares set foot on land, yet takes care not to linger among them.read · scan
- p. 169–170Drake declines offered reinforcement, wishing no more strength than he has, which the Cimaroons take as magnanimity.read · scan
- p. 179–180Drake marches cheerfully, shares his men's hardships and complaints, and encourages them by example and speech.read · scan
Captain Walter Bigges, Drake's Great ArmadaVol. 33
- p. 241The Lieutenant-General encourages and leads the charge despite the first man slain beside him.read · scan
- p. 246Lieutenant-General leads the furious assault; the Spanish ensign-bearer fought manfully to his life's end.read · scan
Michael Drayton, Agincourt; To the Virginian Voyage; Love's FarewellVol. 40
- p. 222–225Henry urges his men not to be amazed at tenfold odds; he will win or die, and English hearts stand close together.read · scan
John Milton, Paradise LostVol. 4
- p. 90Satan shames his abashed followers to rise from their abject posture: awake, arise, or be for ever fallen.read · scan
- p. 90Satan with proud words raises the fainting courage of his downcast host.read · scan
- p. 108Satan undertakes the danger for the general safety, and is praised as matchless chief.read · scan
- p. 204Satan urges the host to abandon fear and think nothing hard.read · scan
Samuel Johnson, Life of Addison, 1672-1719Vol. 27
- p. 182–183Marlborough's superiority lies in deliberate intrepidity and calm self-command in danger, not brute prowess.read · scan
Gotthold Ephraim Lessing, Minna von Barnhelm, or The Soldier's FortuneVol. 26
- p. 337–338Werner twice saved Tellheim's life in battle; Tellheim risked his life for common soldiers.read · scan
Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, EgmontVol. 19
- p. 270He reproaches himself that the trumpet and shots no longer rouse him to dare and fight.read · scan
- p. 303–304Alva demands courage, resolve and unswerving execution from Silva.read · scan
Robert Burns, Poems and SongsVol. 6
- p. 421–423Kenmure is the bravest lord; no coward in his blood, hearts and swords of true metal.read · scan
William Wordsworth, PoemsVol. 41
- p. 663–664Protesilaus leapt first ashore despite the oracle's doom; fearless virtue brings boundless gain.read · scan
- p. 664–666He resolved to be first ashore at Troy, sweeping away the indignity of cowardice.read · scan
Thomas Campbell, PoemsVol. 41
- p. 780–781'On, ye Brave' urges charge toward glory or grave.read · scan
Alessandro Manzoni, I Promessi Sposi (The Betrothed)Vol. 21
- p. 221–222Ferrer encourages the terrified superintendent to be of good courage while privately fearing for himself.read · scan
Matthew Arnold, PoemsVol. 42
- p. 1135–1136Heroic leaders rally a fainting race, dispelling panic and despair and re-inspiring the brave on the march to the City of God.read · scan
Frank Aretas Haskell, The Battle of GettysburgVol. 43
- p. 332–333Praises a general as gallant, flashing-eyed, directing the field in person; soldiers face death calmly.read · scan
- p. 333Hancock's hopeful spirits and steadiness amid rout inspire the broken troops to re-form.read · scan
- p. 349–350Third Corps' heroic fight and troops cheering their generals, whose voices show they will fight.read · scan
- p. 377Gibbon gently steadies frightened men and returns them to the line; infantry stays unshaken.read · scan
- p. 378Gibbon's coolness is reflected in the faces of his men.read · scan
- p. 381Haskell draws his sword to rally fugitives, despising danger; contrasts with men fleeing in fear.read · scan
- p. 381Fugitives are turned back to face the enemy; Webb directs and encourages his dying line.read · scan
- p. 381–385Officers lead regiments gallantly despite wounds and deaths; battle-tried men do not turn back.read · scan
8c.Single combat, duels and personal prowess
See also: Revenge 4b · Honor 5b · War and Peace 4b
Homer, The OdysseyVol. 22
- p. 15Athene wishes Odysseus's strength against the shameless wooers.read · scan
- p. 52Odysseus disguises himself as a beggar with stripes and enters Troy, slays Trojans and brings back word to the Argives.read · scan
- p. 138Odysseus draws his sword and springs at Circe after resisting her potion.read · scan
- p. 247–248Irus trembles with fear; Odysseus, master of the fight, weighs killing versus a light blow.read · scan
- p. 267–268Odysseus charges the boar first and kills it despite being wounded.read · scan
- p. 294Odysseus effortlessly bends the great bow the suitors could not, and the suitors' faces change with dread.read · scan
- p. 297Fear unstrings the wooers' knees while Odysseus offers them the choice to fight or flee.read · scan
- p. 298Eurymachus urges taking delight in battle; Odysseus holds the door single-handed against many.read · scan
- p. 333–334Odysseus charges like an eagle while the enemy, seized by fear, drops arms and flees.read · scan
Marcus Tullius Cicero, On FriendshipVol. 9
- p. 12Scipio's extraordinary personal courage in early manhood fulfilled the hopes of his fellow citizens.read · scan
Virgil, The AeneidVol. 13
- p. 145Ulysses and his men cast lots and blind the giant with a flaming brand.read · scan
- p. 178Entellus, though old, is unmoved by fear and loves martial fame; Dares is daunted by the huge gauntlets and refuses.read · scan
- p. 178Entellus rises after his fall, fired by shame and conscious virtue, and presses Dares with redoubled force.read · scan
- p. 270Hercules pursues Cacus, tears open the rock cave with all his might to reach the thief.read · scan
- p. 270Hercules assails the fire-breathing Cacus and strangles him, freeing the cattle.read · scan
- p. 293Turnus challenges any who dare share his leader's danger and scorns the Trojans as a dastard race.read · scan
- p. 316Turnus remains calm and sedate facing the enemy.read · scan
- p. 325Pallas faces Turnus unafraid, confident of a name alive or dead, trusting Jove is impartial.read · scan
- p. 340Aeneas stands unused to fear; Liger's vaunts prove vain and he then begs for life.read · scan
- p. 366Turnus prefers a man who dares death undaunted and vows to meet Aeneas alone in single combat.read · scan
- p. 389Turnus's fury is likened to a wounded lion; he offers his lone valor to decide the war.read · scan
- p. 389Turnus and Aeneas arm themselves, likened to a raging bull, eager for the duel.read · scan
- p. 389Turnus, heartened by Aeneas's wound, rides in fury.read · scan
- p. 389Turnus's resistless fury; Phegeus dares to seize the chariot rein.read · scan
Plutarch, AlcibiadesVol. 12
- p. 111–112Alcibiades and Socrates each rescue the other in battle at Potidaea and Delium, and Socrates yields Alcibiades the prize of valor.read · scan
Plutarch, CoriolanusVol. 12
- p. 152–154Marcius overpowers enemies by strength, speed and daring, then hastens to share the peril of the main battle.read · scan
Plutarch, AntonyVol. 12
- p. 369Antony challenges the younger Caesar to single combat, refused.read · scan
BeowulfVol. 49
- p. 8–10Beowulf, mightiest of men, sails with fourteen chosen warriors to aid Hrothgar against Grendel.read · scan
- p. 10–12Beowulf offers in greatness of soul to bring succor to Hrothgar against the monster.read · scan
- p. 14Wulfgar is known for courage and counsel; the herald judges the strangers came for high-hearted valor.read · scan
- p. 15Beowulf boasts of slaying monsters and asks to purge Heorot alone with his men.read · scan
- p. 15–18Beowulf resolves to fight Grendel bare-handed, disdaining weapons, ready to die.read · scan
- p. 20Beowulf recounts fighting sea-monsters after five nights swimming and vows to face Grendel.read · scan
- p. 20–23Beowulf vows to accomplish the deed or die in the mead-hall.read · scan
- p. 23Beowulf boldly resolves to face Grendel unarmed, matching the monster's own weaponless might, while the other warriors sleep.read · scan
- p. 24Beowulf holds firm and seizes Grendel, who is terrified at meeting a stronger grip than he has ever known.read · scan
- p. 24–26Beowulf's earls bravely try to defend their lord against the monster.read · scan
- p. 28Sigemund dares the dragon alone in a fearful quest.read · scan
- p. 40–41Hrothgar challenges Beowulf to dare the terrible mere and promises treasure as reward.read · scan
- p. 43Beowulf arms himself for the deep without mourning for his life.read · scan
- p. 43–45Beowulf dares the flood while Unferth, who boasted when drunk, lacks the courage to do so himself.read · scan
- p. 46Beowulf fights on undaunted in the lair when his sword fails, trusting his own strength.read · scan
- p. 46–48Reckless of life, he seizes the giant sword and strikes.read · scan
- p. 48–50The Geats bear back Grendel's head; Beowulf recounts his struggle under water.read · scan
- p. 57–59Beowulf returns safe from combat with Grendel, hero-play in Heorot.read · scan
- p. 61Beowulf stands against Grendel's grasp and maims him, winning fame for the people.read · scan
- p. 61Beowulf hazards his life in the sea to slay Grendel's mother for glory.read · scan
- p. 68Beowulf scorns to lead a host against the dragon, recalling past perils and his swim from Frisia.read · scan
- p. 68–70Beowulf goes with eleven comrades to face the dragon despite gloom.read · scan
- p. 73Beowulf vows to fight the dragon alone, fearing fire yet bold, recalling past victories in war.read · scan
- p. 74Beowulf advances alone against the dragon's fire, no coward's path, while his comrades flee to the woods.read · scan
- p. 79–80Wiglaf, heedless of his burned hand, helps his kinsman and together they kill the dragon; thus an earl should be in danger's day.read · scan
The Destruction of Dá Derga's HostelVol. 49
- p. 217–218The nine companions of Cormac are described as warriors with a marvelous feat of swordplay.read · scan
- p. 218–219Cormac Condlongas and his nine companions are heroes who will slay many in their first onset.read · scan
- p. 222Ingcel nearly swoons from horror at the fury of the champions.read · scan
- p. 222–223Mac cecht is praised as a hero whose fighting strength terrifies the attackers, who flee in trembling.read · scan
- p. 229–230Though gentle, Conaire once roused will fight with great fury and slay hundreds at the doors.read · scan
- p. 238Heroes' prowess is celebrated; the warning that they will boast of victory over a king shows heroic valour.read · scan
- p. 245–246Mac cecht searches all Erin's rivers and lakes for water, then kills the men beheading the king.read · scan
Stories from the Thousand and One NightsVol. 16
- p. 204–205Nur-ed-Din, a man of courage, drags the powerful Wezir from his saddle and throws him to the ground.read · scan
- p. 337–339Bedr Basim is praised as incomparable in glory and courage.read · scan
Songs from the Elder EddaVol. 49
- p. 426–429Two men face two hundred Goths; Hamdir defiantly challenges the king.read · scan
The Song of RolandVol. 49
- p. 103–104Roland, Olivier and Turpin each volunteer for the perilous embassy to Saragossa.read · scan
- p. 123–124Champions boast of their prowess and fearlessness in battle.read · scan
- p. 124–125Champions boast of their swords and bravery, vowing to conquer France.read · scan
- p. 132–133Roland and Olivier charge and slay the boasting enemy champions.read · scan
- p. 135–136Roland fights undismayed, breaking lance then wielding Durindana; the Franks are fiery and heroic in combat.read · scan
- p. 147–148Grandonie, seeing Roland, is seized by fear and would flee, contrasting Roland's knightly prowess.read · scan
- p. 191–193Both champions fight fiercely; Pinabel refuses to yield, preferring death to disgrace.read · scan
The Story of the Volsungs and NiblungsVol. 49
- p. 264–265Sigmund, unafraid, seizes the wolf's tongue in his teeth and escapes the stocks.read · scan
- p. 268–269Sinfjotli, young and bold, slays eleven men alone and is too proud to call for help.read · scan
- p. 291–293Sigurd fights through the thickest throng unflinching and agrees to face the dragon Fafnir.read · scan
- p. 293–294Sigurd neither trembles nor fears the venomous dragon, answering that a hardy heart urged him; Regin is called faint-hearted.read · scan
- p. 294–295Fafnir marvels a bondsman has heart to fight; Sigurd says the terror of a countenance cannot ensure victory over many.read · scan
- p. 315–316Sigurd alone dares ride through the roaring flame around Brynhild's hall, which few rulers would attempt.read · scan
- p. 319–321Verse contrasts Sigurd, who dared the flame, with Gunnar who never durst.read · scan
- p. 327–328Sigurd's eyes so bright that Guttorm dared not strike; he slays him even when mortally wounded.read · scan
Jean Froissart, The Chronicles of FroissartVol. 35
- p. 42–44Audley does marvels in arms, fighting without taking prisoners; Eustace charges into the French battle alone.read · scan
- p. 48–50King John does marvels in arms with his own hands.read · scan
- p. 50–51Prince of Wales is described as courageous and cruel as a lion, taking pleasure in fighting.read · scan
- p. 51–53Audley is reputed the most valiant, wounded in fulfilling his vow.read · scan
- p. 82Young Percy knights are foremost in skirmishing hand to hand.read · scan
- p. 94Redman, unhorsed, takes courage to defend himself with his sword.read · scan
Traditional BalladsVol. 40
- p. 87–89Piercy rides furiously against Douglas's spear; the challenge means one of them shall die.read · scan
- p. 91–93Piercy refuses to yield to a lowly fellow.read · scan
- p. 109–110Buccleuch and his forty kinsmen arm themselves boldly for a daring rescue.read · scan
- p. 125–127Bewick leaps the ditch to fight; both fight two hours, and Grahame strips his armor to match Bewick's fair terms.read · scan
- p. 148–150Little John and the cook fight two miles and an hour with swords, each admiring the other's prowess.read · scan
Sir Thomas Malory, The Holy GrailVol. 35
- p. 120–122Melias insists on the harder left-hand road to prove his strength; Galahad defends him and smites the knights.read · scan
- p. 124Galahad single-handedly defeats seven brother knights and forces the castle to yield.read · scan
- p. 136–138Galahad rescues Percivale, fighting twenty men-at-arms alone and putting them to flight.read · scan
- p. 151–152Launcelot's marvellous deeds of arms until he is exhausted and overcome.read · scan
- p. 157–159Gawaine insists on jousting first to spare Ector, and fights despite a wound.read · scan
- p. 165–167Both knights fight fiercely through deep wounds; Bors endures and finally overcomes his hard opponent.read · scan
- p. 175The hermit and Colgrevance risk death to defend Bors.read · scan
- p. 178–179Galahad by his deeds of arms overthrows Gawaine and drives back the knights, who deem it folly to meet him.read · scan
- p. 181–182The sword's inscription demands one hardier than any other to draw it.read · scan
- p. 184The wielder must be harder than any other; Nacien lacks the hardiness to draw the sword.read · scan
- p. 192–194Galahad and his fellows fight against overwhelming numbers, Galahad doing marvels of arms.read · scan
- p. 195Bors rides to rescue a wounded knight, and Galahad pledges to succour him.read · scan
Benvenuto Cellini, The Autobiography of Benvenuto CelliniVol. 31
- p. 7Kinsman Luca Cellini, a beardless youth, slew a veteran duelist through valour.read · scan
- p. 14–15He faces rapiers and stones alone to protect his fallen brother, amazing soldiers with a boy's valour.read · scan
- p. 42Faced with the butler's threats of a Spanish attack, Cellini arms himself and resolves to defend himself.read · scan
- p. 42Cellini faces a crowd of armed Spaniards with his gun, threatening to kill their leader and driving them off.read · scan
- p. 44–45Cellini enters the hostile palace armed, endures the Bishop's raging in silence, and refuses to sign a receipt until paid.read · scan
- p. 45–46He draws his sword against the swaggering soldier who insulted his countrymen.read · scan
- p. 46–47He accepts the challenge readily, expecting to finish the duel faster than his craft work.read · scan
- p. 54–55Ambushed by disguised pirates, Cellini resolves to escape or die and escapes by a pony's leap, thanking God.read · scan
- p. 65Cellini single-handedly routs a dozen armed men and comes off with honour.read · scan
- p. 73Cellini faces Cardinal Farnese's household and the general with lit match and cannon, threatening to blow them into powder.read · scan
- p. 99Four beardless youths and then Cecchino fight fifty constables with reckless daring, nearly routing the guard single-handed.read · scan
- p. 101–102He is called a most valiant spirit, worthy in arms to the end.read · scan
- p. 104He pursues and strikes the man, then defends his life sword in hand against four soldiers.read · scan
- p. 133Cellini rides armed and boldly trots past the Bargello's guard, making a virtue of necessity to escape Rome.read · scan
- p. 138Cellini defends himself against would-be assassins and boldly reassures terrified gentlemen at the inn.read · scan
- p. 143–144Cellini boldly stabs Pompeo through his guards and defends himself with sword.read · scan
- p. 146Cellini goes about wary and armed with mail against the plot.read · scan
- p. 147Cellini faces the hired Corsican assassin unflinchingly, warning him, and the man loses his nerve.read · scan
- p. 150Cellini boldly confronts a group of hostile men single-handed.read · scan
- p. 152–153Cellini routs armed pursuers and spares the fallen Magalotti, showing mastery over his power to kill.read · scan
- p. 161Cellini faces the Bargello and thirty constables with dagger and safe-conduct, resolving to escape alive or be taken dead.read · scan
- p. 161–162Cellini's defiance makes the officers give up; companions marvel at his daring, and the doctor calls him a man of iron with a lion's pulse.read · scan
- p. 195Cellini escapes a band of would-be murderers on the road to Paris by great courage and address.read · scan
- p. 198Cellini faces a crowd with an arquebuse, resolved to die fighting; the innkeeper praises his courage and the mob backs off.read · scan
- p. 220Though crippled and bitten, he fights off the dogs with his poniard.read · scan
- p. 225–226Pier Luigi describes Cellini's bold spirit, marksmanship and killing of Pompeo as proof he is too truculent.read · scan
- p. 263Cellini is unafraid of the brutal postmaster and his soldier sons, relying on mail, arquebuse and armed companions.read · scan
- p. 281–282Cellini threatens to kill Marmagna on the spot and plans an armed fight, and the man backs down.read · scan
- p. 286Cellini boldly draws his sword against four armed assailants, bluffing and fighting them off to protect the gold.read · scan
- p. 392–393Cellini and the truculent captain reach for their swords in a quarrel, checked by onlookers.read · scan
Miguel de Cervantes, The History of Don Quixote of the Mancha, Part IVol. 14
- p. 32Don Quixote boldly defends his armour against the carrier, invoking Dulcinea and striking him down in his first adventure.read · scan
- p. 65–66Quixote and the Biscaine each stake all on one blow in a fierce duel, while onlookers watch in fear.read · scan
- p. 70–71The combatants' hardiness and courage are extolled as threatening heaven and earth.read · scan
- p. 92Knights are praised for valiant feats of arms and renown.read · scan
- p. 411The renegade acts swiftly to gag and bind Aguimorato, threatening his life.read · scan
Francis Beaumont and John Fletcher, Philaster, or Love Lies A-BleedingVol. 47
- p. 682Philaster dismisses Pharamond as a valiant voice and threatens to kill him even at the altar.read · scan
Thomas Hobbes, Of Man, Being the First Part of LeviathanVol. 34
- p. 367Duels are sometimes effects of courage, grounded in strength or skill, though often of fear of dishonour.read · scan
John Milton, Paradise LostVol. 4
- p. 204No thought of flight or unbecoming fear; each warrior relies on himselfread · scan
John Milton, Samson AgonistesVol. 4
- p. 415Recalls Samson's feats: tore the lion and scorned armies' arms.read · scan
- p. 415Samson's heroic feats: slaying with jawbone, carrying gates of Gaza.read · scan
- p. 415Samson retires to plan, not flying but forecasting, then attacks unarmed.read · scan
- p. 415Samson's once invincible strength, equal to angels, now unequal against a coward armed.read · scan
- p. 415Samson dares the giant to fight, chained, while Harapha boasts and disdains.read · scan
- p. 415Samson defies Harapha to mortal combat.read · scan
John Dryden, Dedication of the AeneisVol. 13
- p. 25Segrais answers charges that Aeneas lacked courage, citing his many battle deeds, his wound and his renewed combat with Turnus.read · scan
- p. 48–49Critics charge Virgil's hero with want of courage for securing him advantages before the duel with Turnus.read · scan
John Locke, Some Thoughts Concerning EducationVol. 37
- p. 171–172A man of courage without fencing may fare better than a moderate fencer; duelling adds little to martial prowess.read · scan
Jean Racine, PhaedraVol. 26
- p. 191Hippolytus alone stands to fight the monster while others flee, a hero's worthy son.read · scan
Sir Walter Scott, PoemsVol. 41
- p. 749–751Lochinvar rides alone and unarmed through rivers and into the hall, dauntless against the craven bridegroom.read · scan
Charles Darwin, The Voyage of the BeagleVol. 29
- p. 158Anecdote of man recovering his stolen horse and killing a pursuer by skill.read · scan
Robert Browning, A Blot in the 'ScutcheonVol. 18
- p. 392Mertoun accepts the duel and conjures Tresham not to press for his name, while Tresham challenges him fiercely.read · scan
Richard Henry Dana, Jr., Twenty-Four Years AfterVol. 23
- p. 398Thompson never failed in pluck when seized by the natives.read · scan
Dante Gabriel Rossetti, PoemsVol. 42
- p. 1172–1174Half naked in the crypt the king stands able to dare; 'still the Man was there,' and he throws his attacker.read · scan
- p. 1174–1175The unarmed king fights on with a heart nothing could tame, strangling foes with bare hands until spent.read · scan
William Morris, PoemsVol. 42
- p. 1188–1190Launcelot fights gladly, half-armed and left side uncovered.read · scan
8d.Courage of nations and armies
See also: War and Peace 8d
Herodotus, An Account of EgyptVol. 33
- p. 48–50Pillars distinguish valiant peoples who fought for freedom from cowardly ones, marked with an insulting emblem.read · scan
Marcus Tullius Cicero, Letters of CiceroVol. 9
- p. 135King Deiotarus is praised for eminent courage and wisdom, and loyalty to Rome.read · scan
Virgil, The AeneidVol. 13
- p. 232Marcellus and the Scipios praised as thunderbolts of war.read · scan
- p. 340Jove asks whether Trojan valor alone forces fortune, judging the fierce warriors' courage.read · scan
Plutarch, ThemistoclesVol. 12
- p. 11–12Greeks learned that numbers and boasting are not terrible to men who fight hand to hand; first step to victory is courage.read · scan
- p. 18Joint valor and zeal of all the Greeks brought the glorious victory.read · scan
- p. 29The king admires his temper and courage.read · scan
Plutarch, AristidesVol. 12
- p. 87Athenian magnanimity and valor in the cause of Greece despite extreme distress.read · scan
- p. 91Athenian volunteers under Aristides defeat Persian cavalry and slay the valiant Masistius, whose loss the barbarians mourn.read · scan
- p. 93Athenians say Persians have the same soft bodies and effeminate minds, while Greek courage is augmented by victories.read · scan
- p. 96–97The Athenian tribe Mantis is said to have fought with the greatest courage.read · scan
Plutarch, CaesarVol. 12
- p. 274Old Considius says age frees him from fear of Caesar's soldiers.read · scan
- p. 297Caesar's hungry troops defiantly throw root bread at the enemy, whose men fear them as wild beasts.read · scan
Plutarch, AntonyVol. 12
- p. 351Roman discipline and charge frighten the Parthian horse, though success is small and discouraging.read · scan
- p. 356The Romans, not disheartened, answer the Parthians with resolution and drive them off.read · scan
- p. 373–374Soldiers show generous fidelity, holding together seven days after Antony's flight before submitting.read · scan
Tacitus, GermanyVol. 33
- p. 94Chanting shields-to-mouth is the voice and exertion of valour before battle.read · scan
- p. 95Retreat and return to the attack counts as policy not fear; bravery drives the choice of fighters.read · scan
- p. 108The Batavians are singled out as most signal in bravery.read · scan
- p. 109Cattans prize bravery over fortune; patience and deliberation are akin to intrepidity, while hasty flight resembles fear.read · scan
- p. 110The bravest fight in the front line with fierce looks and rigid bravery.read · scan
- p. 116Marcomanians won their land by bravery, expelling the Boians.read · scan
Stories from the Thousand and One NightsVol. 16
- p. 299–301Harun is described as courageous, an illustrious hero.read · scan
The Song of RolandVol. 49
- p. 130–131The Franks ride proudly and fearless against the paynim foes.read · scan
Dante Alighieri, HellVol. 20
- p. 67Courtesy and valor are named as the qualities of old Florence.read · scan
Jean Froissart, The Chronicles of FroissartVol. 35
- p. 13Townsmen resolve to fight, putting their lives in adventure.read · scan
- p. 14The townsmen, unaccustomed to archers, flee in fear despite the constable's efforts.read · scan
- p. 21–22Hardy men enter the water in God's name to fight across the ford, some as glad to joust there as on land.read · scan
- p. 27The English stand unmoved through three Genoese cries and leaps, while the Genoese flee under arrow fire.read · scan
- p. 87–88Both nations are praised as good men of war who fight hard to the end.read · scan
- p. 88Knights fight without cowardice; Douglas charges alone like a hardy Hector and Englishmen prefer death to flight.read · scan
- p. 88–89Battle praised as fought without cowardice or faint hearts; every knight did his devoir hand to hand.read · scan
Amerigo Vespucci, Amerigo Vespucci's Account of His First VoyageVol. 43
- p. 28Forty-two men leap ashore resolved to fight.read · scan
Niccolò Machiavelli, The PrinceVol. 36
- p. 86The prince is urged to undertake the enterprise with courage and hope, the old valour still living in Italian hearts.read · scan
Sir Thomas More, UtopiaVol. 36
- p. 215Utopian courage grows with stubbornness in battle, sustained by secure living, virtuous upbringing and laws; neither rash nor clinging to life.read · scan
William Harrison, A Description of Elizabethan EnglandVol. 35
- p. 219–220Knights are made before battle to encourage manhood or after it to reward prowess shown.read · scan
Sir Francis Drake, Sir Francis Drake RevivedVol. 33
- p. 177–178A mortally wounded Cimaroon still kills his attacker; the Cimaroons advance singing despite shot.read · scan
Miguel de Cervantes, The History of Don Quixote of the Mancha, Part IVol. 14
- p. 410The Moors, of little spirit, submit without daring to touch their arms.read · scan
Francis Bacon, Essays, Civil and MoralVol. 3
- p. 37–38Index cites it for courage, but the text concerns sedition, factions and reverence for government; courage is not treated.read · scan
- p. 38–39Notes that great oppressions which provoke patience also 'mate' (confound) the courage of the oppressed, whereas fears do not; a brief point on oppression sapping courage.read · scan
- p. 39–40Remedies for sedition through economic policy; nothing about courage.read · scan
- p. 73–74Numbers matter little where people lack courage; valiant natives are the sinews of war.read · scan
- p. 78–79Slothful peace makes courage effeminate and corrupts manners.read · scan
Michael Drayton, Agincourt; To the Virginian Voyage; Love's FarewellVol. 40
- p. 225–228Nobles like Clarence, Warwick and Suffolk bear themselves doughtily in furious fight.read · scan
John Milton, AreopagiticaVol. 3
- p. 222–225Citizens' contempt of enemies compared to the Roman who bought the ground where Hannibal camped.read · scan
John Milton, Paradise LostVol. 4
- p. 342Israelites are led by a roundabout way lest fear of war send them back to servitude.read · scan
John Dryden, All for Love; or, The World Well LostVol. 18
- p. 7–11Loyalty and courage of Earl of Lindsey fighting for prince and country.read · scan
John Locke, Some Thoughts Concerning EducationVol. 37
- p. 54Debauchery sinks men's courage; no nation keeps its military credit once corruption dissolves discipline.read · scan
Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, The Tragedy of Faust, Part IVol. 19
- p. 41–42Soldiers' song exalts the bold venture and the tumult where pleasure or death may befall.read · scan
Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, EgmontVol. 19
- p. 255–256The soldier celebrates the bravery of the troops, and the peasant women who cut down fleeing French.read · scan
Robert Burns, Poems and SongsVol. 6
- p. 162–164Contrasts cowardly foreign soldiers with the fearless Highlander who faces death unflinching.read · scan
- p. 358–360Highland wrath and charging with swords, contrasted with the fleeing like frightened doves.read · scan
- p. 492–494Sons of liberty brave in danger's hour; Wallace's hero arm contrasted with cowards.read · scan
Friedrich Schiller, William TellVol. 26
- p. 477Furst says courage and concord are needed; the others vow to meet the foe.read · scan
James Hogg, PoemsVol. 41
- p. 766–768Elliot smiles at approaching foes and welcomes them; his men are gentle in manner but lions in fight.read · scan
Alessandro Manzoni, I Promessi Sposi (The Betrothed)Vol. 21
- p. 120–121Villagers divide into cowards who slip back to bed and the courageous who arm themselves and run to the alarm.read · scan
George Gordon, Lord Byron, PoemsVol. 41
- p. 814–816Only in native ranks does courage dwell, and he tells himself to strike home.read · scan
William Cullen Bryant, PoemsVol. 42
- p. 1217–1219The band is bold and true, striking terror into the British by sudden night raids.read · scan
Thomas Carlyle, Inaugural Address at EdinburghVol. 25
- p. 365Romans believed they must brave danger and be ready to do and die.read · scan
Thomas Carlyle, Sir Walter ScottVol. 25
- p. 423–424Brawny armored fighters of rough strong times advance nothing doubting, contrasted with modern doubt and sickliness.read · scan
Thomas Babington Macaulay, MachiavelliVol. 27
- p. 375–376Courage ceased to be necessary to soldiers in Italy, whereas valor was indispensable among northern nations, where cowardice was the foulest reproach.read · scan
- p. 379–380The Italian statesman neither has nor values military courage, since timidity is no longer shameful in his society.read · scan
Ralph Waldo Emerson, English TraitsVol. 5
- p. 343–344Northmen show reckless bravery and prompt action, as King Hake dying in battle and fire.read · scan
- p. 348English delight in combining courage with tenderness: Nelson, Franklin, Rodney overcoming fear by honor and duty.read · scan
- p. 358–359Victory rests on strength, courage and endurance of individual combatants.read · scan
- p. 365–366The English prize pluck above all: cabmen, merchants, bishops, women and newspapers all have it; Nelson's heroism.read · scan
- p. 367England is no country for the fainthearted; one must have weight of metal and take one's own course.read · scan
- p. 380–381English stoutness: they die game, fight well, storming redoubts and boarding frigates, though poor at passive endurance.read · scan
- p. 381–382Excess force creates fortitude; they measure their strength by the terror they cause.read · scan
- p. 388–389English have a steady courage for great attempts and a petty courage of showing themselves as they are.read · scan
- p. 403Norse exploits and 'who has courage and faculty, let him come in'; nobles risked life.read · scan
- p. 468Praise of English courage in war and sinew in labor.read · scan
- p. 472English shine in adversity like the ship returning battered from the storm; secret vigor in calamity.read · scan
- p. 472Hope of mankind depends on England's courage surviving commercial crisis.read · scan
Charles Augustin Sainte-Beuve, MontaigneVol. 32
- p. 110–111Needed alongside prudence and energy for the country to emerge with honour.read · scan
Robert Stephen Hawker, PoemsVol. 42
- p. 1111–1112Cornishmen boldly vow to march on London and free Trelawny, taunting cowards.read · scan
Robert E. Lee, Lee's Farewell to His ArmyVol. 43
- p. 423Praises the army's unsurpassed courage, fortitude, steadfastness and constancy.read · scan
Charles Darwin, The Voyage of the BeagleVol. 29
- p. 43–44Ants that attacked the stone are called lion-hearted warriors who scorned yielding, ascribing courage to insects.read · scan
- p. 70The Indians advance naked and steady to the fence; a cool Frenchman holds fire until they are close.read · scan
- p. 107–108Wounded Indians fight to the last, and the soldiers travel unknown country independently.read · scan
- p. 423Boldness of New Zealanders in defying Cook's ship; each man fights as he pleases.read · scan
James Russell Lowell, Abraham LincolnVol. 28
- p. 430Crowds capable of higher courage, yet liable to baser depression.read · scan
- p. 432Praises the heroic energy, persistency and self-reliance of a nation proving greatness dearer than mere power.read · scan
Walt Whitman, PoemsVol. 42
- p. 1404–1406Marching through battle and defeat, the fittest die advancing and the gap is filled.read · scan
Frank Aretas Haskell, The Battle of GettysburgVol. 43
- p. 327Haskell praises the army as no band of school girls, undiscouraged by defeat and reliable under all circumstances.read · scan
- p. 327–328Weary, sleepless men could still be relied upon when conflict came.read · scan
- p. 330–331Praises Iron Brigade's fighting and the citizen John Burns; the brave compliment the brave.read · scan
- p. 341Men wait calmly, some mirthful, some silent, each passing the hour according to duty or humor.read · scan
- p. 341Admits the enemy has courage and good infantry who will fight desperately, though his artillery and cavalry are despised.read · scan
- p. 341–344Veteran troops remain calm and cheerful, knowing the storm of death is coming.read · scan
- p. 345–348The Third Corps fights well against overwhelming fire.read · scan
- p. 355Troops are merry and light-hearted after a day of bloody battle, as befits soldiers.read · scan
- p. 355Enemy's reckless night assaults called madness; Union battery men drive off attackers with sabres and rammers.read · scan
- p. 374Artillerymen never flinch under fire and the infantry lie cool, joking that they are getting to like the cannonade.read · scan
- p. 378–381Silent enemy lines advance unwavering under shell and canister; courage needs no other stimulus.read · scan
- p. 386Timid men, breathing the breath of the multitude, become brave.read · scan
- p. 400Enemy showed determination and valor worthy of a better cause; Union troops stood against storms of fire.read · scan
- p. 403Praises the horse Dick's coolness and bravery under fire, exceeding duty-driven conduct in men.read · scan
8e.Women and the weak as warriors
Homer, The OdysseyVol. 22
- p. 84Odysseus advances like a lion; Athene gives Nausicaa courage to stand firm while the others flee.read · scan
- p. 255–256Telemachus speaks boldly to the wooers, who marvel at him.read · scan
- p. 279–280Telemachus speaks boldly to the wooers and shields the stranger.read · scan
- p. 286–287Telemachus calls himself a coward or too young to defend himself against violence, yet strains to string the bow.read · scan
Buddhist WritingsVol. 45
- p. 773–774Visakha calmly checks a charging elephant with two fingers, while her attendants flee.read · scan
Virgil, The AeneidVol. 13
- p. 87Penthesilea, the Amazon queen, leads warriors and confronts a thousand foes.read · scan
- p. 197–202Cowards and women are left behind; only the brave who dare face the Italians go on for fame.read · scan
- p. 305Numanus mocks Trojans as effeminate; Ascanius answers by killing him, proving valor.read · scan
- p. 366Camilla offers to face the Tyrrhenian horse alone, relying on inborn worth to dare, conquer or die.read · scan
- p. 366Camilla rides unappalled through danger, a woman warrior compared to the Amazons.read · scan
- p. 366Camilla dismounts to fight Aunus on equal terms, scorning his taunt of weakness.read · scan
- p. 383Latian virgins, valiant with despair, defend the towers inspired by Camilla's example.read · scan
Pliny the Younger, Letters of PlinyVol. 9
- p. 243Arria's resolute devotion, following her husband's ship and vowing to die by any means, shows greater heroism than her famous saying.read · scan
- p. 305–307Fannia's fortitude: exile for her husband, and fearless testimony before the senate's inquisitor.read · scan
Saint Augustine, The Confessions of St. AugustineVol. 7
- p. 153–154Friends marvel at a woman's courage in not fearing to die far from her city.read · scan
Stories from the Thousand and One NightsVol. 16
- p. 435–436Marjaneh, a slave girl, boldly kills thirty-seven hidden robbers with boiling oil to save her master and household.read · scan
- p. 439–440Marjaneh disguised as a dancer boldly stabs the captain to prevent the assassination of her master.read · scan
The Story of the Volsungs and NiblungsVol. 49
- p. 299–300Brynhild vowed to wed only one who knew no fear.read · scan
- p. 316–317Brynhild, armed, yearns for battle and demands a husband who will slay her wooers.read · scan
Traditional BalladsVol. 40
- p. 104–106The lady refuses to surrender her house even to save her life and shoots at Captain Care.read · scan
- p. 118–120Braikley's lady urges him to fight and rouses her women; he rides out vowing never to return.read · scan
Sir Thomas Malory, The Holy GrailVol. 35
- p. 194–195Percivale's sister willingly faces death to heal the lady and end the battle.read · scan
Ambroise Paré, Journeys in Diverse PlacesVol. 38
- p. 14The little man's skill and strength overcome larger opponents.read · scan
Edmund Spenser, Prefatory Letter to Sir Walter Raleigh on the Faerie QueeneVol. 39
- p. 63–64A rustic youth takes on the quest to free the lady's parents from the dragon and becomes a knight.read · scan
William Shakespeare, The Tragedy of MacbethVol. 46
- p. 370–373The boy defies the murderer, calling him a villain, and dies urging his mother to flee.read · scan
Jonathan Swift, On the Death of Esther Johnson [Stella]Vol. 27
- p. 124–125Despite gentle temper she had a hero's courage, shooting a armed intruder and showing no fear in coaches or on horseback.read · scan
Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, EgmontVol. 19
- p. 315–316Clara, though a woman, claims the courage and contempt of danger the burghers lack, and urges them to act.read · scan
- p. 316–318Clara declares she has the courage and contempt of danger the men lack and would lead them like a banner.read · scan
Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, Hermann and DorotheaVol. 19
- p. 378–379A girl seizes a marauder's sword, fells him, and defends the younger maidens, showing the weaker sex brave and strong.read · scan
- p. 382–383She is the one who seized the sword and delivered herself and her charges.read · scan
Friedrich Schiller, William TellVol. 26
- p. 387–391Gertrude would rather die than be enslaved, urging bold resistance.read · scan
- p. 443–444Young Walter refuses to be bound or blindfolded, wishing to defy the tyrant by trusting his father.read · scan
- p. 444–445Walter bids his father shoot without fear; Tell steels himself: it must be.read · scan
Alessandro Manzoni, I Promessi Sposi (The Betrothed)Vol. 21
- p. 128–129Child Menico braved danger to carry the warning; the group thanks him as a guardian angel.read · scan
Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm, Household TalesVol. 17
- p. 77–78Hansel calmly steadies his frightened sister and acts to save them.read · scan
- p. 78–79Hansel stays calm and resourceful, comforting Grethel amid abandonment and finding the way home by moonlit pebbles.read · scan
- p. 81Hansel tricks the blind witch with a bone; Grethel weeps and prays to God for help despite forced servitude.read · scan
- p. 115The weak old animals boldly rout the robbers while the robbers panic.read · scan
- p. 126Swallowed by a wolf, Thumbling does not lose courage amid misfortunes.read · scan
- p. 128Small Thumbling has courage and resolves to go out into the world armed with a needle sword.read · scan
- p. 129–131Robbers praise Thumbling as a valiant hero and offer him captaincy; he declines to see the world.read · scan
John Greenleaf Whittier, PoemsVol. 42
- p. 1363–1364Old Barbara Frietchie bravely defies Stonewall Jackson's troops to keep the Union flag flying.read · scan
Charles Darwin, The Origin of SpeciesVol. 11
- p. 266The small F. flava ants attack their far larger neighbours with surprising courage, while the raiders are terrified and flee.read · scan
Richard Henry Dana, Jr., Two Years Before the MastVol. 23
- p. 231The smaller Boston boy fights bravely against a stronger bully, growing bolder the more he is hurt.read · scan
- p. 231–232George's pluck wins him respect while the bully, cowed, gives in; crew cheers 'Never say die'.read · scan
Dante Gabriel Rossetti, PoemsVol. 42
- p. 1168–1170The unarmed king stands like a king with folded arms; Catherine and the Queen act boldly to save him.read · scan
- p. 1170–1172Catherine bars the door with her own arm; the Queen faces the sword silently to protect the king.read · scan
8f.Valor at sea and in the elements
See also: Life and Death 10c · Exploration 5a · Nature 9c
Homer, The OdysseyVol. 22
- p. 75–76Though wretched he does not forget his raft; he grasps it and holds on through the wave.read · scan
- p. 76–77Odysseus resolves to endure steadfastly in affliction on the raft and swim only when it breaks.read · scan
- p. 77–78Odysseus endures two days and nights at sea and swims on despite despair.read · scan
- p. 78–79He clings to the rock and keeps swimming despite injury.read · scan
- p. 164Odysseus asks how he might avenge himself on Scylla, showing a warrior's spirit against monstrous danger.read · scan
- p. 166–167Odysseus steadies his terrified crew, recalling their escape from the Cyclops through manfulness and wit, and orders them to row on.read · scan
- p. 167Odysseus arms himself and faces Scylla and Charybdis, though he hides the danger from his men to keep them rowing.read · scan
- p. 171–172Odysseus keeps his head, lashes keel and mast together and survives alone.read · scan
- p. 172–173Odysseus clings to the fig tree and waits for his timbers, then drops onto them and rows away.read · scan
Virgil, The AeneidVol. 13
- p. 145Frightened mariners obey and steer through the surging waves.read · scan
- p. 145The crew cut cables and row away in fear from the giants.read · scan
- p. 178Rowers strain together, hope and fear rising alternately in each breast.read · scan
Luke, The Acts of the ApostlesVol. 44
- p. 481–482Paul exhorts the despairing crew to be of good cheer.read · scan
- p. 482–483Paul urges the frightened crew to eat and assures them none will perish, steadying them amid shipwreck.read · scan
Plutarch, CaesarVol. 12
- p. 296–297Caesar disguised as a slave risks a stormy sea crossing, telling the pilot he carries Caesar and his fortune.read · scan
- p. 304Caesar leaps into the sea to aid endangered soldiers and swims off holding his manuscripts aloft.read · scan
Plutarch, AntonyVol. 12
- p. 327Antony risks the winter crossing, more afraid for Caesar than for himself, against Gabinius's caution.read · scan
Stories from the Thousand and One NightsVol. 16
- p. 250–251Sailors do not resist the apes because numbers prevail against courage.read · scan
- p. 273–274Sindbad rallies the master and sailors to push off and seek safety amid the attack.read · scan
The Voyages to VinlandVol. 43
- p. 10Leif rescues fifteen men from the skerry, prudently keeping command of the situation in case they prove hostile.read · scan
The Story of the Volsungs and NiblungsVol. 49
- p. 274–275Helgi bids his men fear nothing and hoist every sail higher in the storm.read · scan
Traditional BalladsVol. 40
- p. 74–76Sir Patrick weeps but sails on at the king's order in spite of warnings of storm.read · scan
Benvenuto Cellini, The Autobiography of Benvenuto CelliniVol. 31
- p. 191Cellini keeps his nerve in a storm on the lake, mocking his frightened companions and devising a plan to save himself and the horses.read · scan
- p. 191–192Cellini forces the boatmen ashore at sword point and calmly faces the loss of his money on the cliff, urging his men to save their lives.read · scan
Miguel de Cervantes, The History of Don Quixote of the Mancha, Part IVol. 14
- p. 378Soldiers grappling in galleys face artillery and drowning with undaunted heart, driven by honour, another replacing each who falls.read · scan
Edward Haies, Sir Humphrey Gilbert's Voyage to NewfoundlandVol. 33
- p. 290Captain Brown refuses to flee and exhorts his crew, preferring death to infamy; Headly offers himself to the lots.read · scan
- p. 295–296Gilbert gives signs of joy in near-shipwreck, reading a book.read · scan
Sir Walter Raleigh, The Discovery of GuianaVol. 33
- p. 372In desperate storm crew cheer one another to show courage and venture the sea in small barge.read · scan
Francis Bacon, The New AtlantisVol. 3
- p. 145Facing starvation in the greatest wilderness of waters, the crew prepares for death yet keeps hope.read · scan
William Shakespeare, The TempestVol. 46
- p. 397–398The crew work with cheerful resolve in danger while the nobles panic.read · scan
William Cartwright, On the Queen's Return from the Low CountriesVol. 40
- p. 358The Queen bore tempests and gunfire bravely, courage worn like a dress, armed with innocence.read · scan
Benjamin Franklin, His AutobiographyVol. 1
- p. 22–23He saves a drunken Dutchman who fell overboard.read · scan
- p. 157–159Kennedy jumps on deck and orders the ship about, averting shipwreck.read · scan
John Woolman, The Journal of John WoolmanVol. 1
- p. 293–294Preserved in calm resignation during a dangerous tempest.read · scan
William Cowper, PoemsVol. 41
- p. 533–535Elegy tolls for the brave Kempenfelt and eight hundred men lost when the Royal George capsized.read · scan
- p. 539–541Sailor washed overboard struggles against death, courage unspent, until he sinks.read · scan
Friedrich Schiller, William TellVol. 26
- p. 381–384Ruodi fears the storm-tossed lake as madness; Tell arrives as one able to dare it.read · scan
- p. 384–386Tell risks the storm to save Baumgarten while the ferryman refuses; the brave man thinks of himself last.read · scan
- p. 429–431Tell braved the storm-tossed lake to rescue a man and is undeterred by danger; over-caution accomplishes little.read · scan
- p. 452–453Tell, stout and fearless, steers through the tempest while watching for a place to leap to land.read · scan
Thomas Campbell, PoemsVol. 41
- p. 772–774The Highland boatman agrees to row through the raging waves to save the lady.read · scan
- p. 778–780The boldest held breath in the silence before the fight; English fleet rushed the deadly space.read · scan
Ralph Waldo Emerson, English TraitsVol. 5
- p. 327Constant watchfulness and risk at sea; speed as safety.read · scan
Hans Christian Andersen, TalesVol. 17
- p. 244She braves wreckage and storm to reach the drowning Prince, forgetting her own danger.read · scan
Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, PoemsVol. 42
- p. 1269–1271The skipper's boast that he can weather any gale; steadfast to deathread · scan
John Greenleaf Whittier, PoemsVol. 42
- p. 1344–1346Stout-hearted fishermen of Marblehead defy storms and the slaver's threat.read · scan
Alfred, Lord Tennyson, PoemsVol. 42
- p. 986–993The leader's cry of Courage urges the mariners on toward the shore.read · scan
Richard Henry Dana, Jr., Two Years Before the MastVol. 23
- p. 23Crew flees a suspected armed pirate brig, using darkness and silence to escape.read · scan
- p. 30The crew labor through the storm, reefing and furling aloft in sleet and hail.read · scan
- p. 32Sailors go out on the bowsprit to furl the jib in a violent storm because duty demands it.read · scan
- p. 32–34Dana and John hold on to the jib-boom, plunged into the sea, and finish furling in peril.read · scan
- p. 64Crew turn out promptly at midnight to slip cables and make sail in a rising gale.read · scan
- p. 69–70The sailor obeys orders and goes aloft to furl the royal amid the confusion and danger of the squall.read · scan
- p. 208Sailors wade into heavy surf and launch boats in a rising gale to save the drifting brig; Spaniards shrink from such doings.read · scan
- p. 212–214John the Frenchman braves the wind aloft to secure the loose royal and send down the yard.read · scan
- p. 214–215Men work on the yards and bowsprit, half under water, against wind that pins them to the shrouds.read · scan
- p. 215–216Men work out on the martingale, repeatedly buried in seas and in danger of being washed off.read · scan
- p. 217Crew endures the storm and danger of a parted wheel-rope, saved by the mate's quick action.read · scan
- p. 288Sailors take the loss of their beef and the near-drowning of shipmates with good humor, though they sense worse seas await at the Horn.read · scan
- p. 288–290Old Bill the croaker forecasts doom and is rebuked by shipmates who joke rather than fear.read · scan
- p. 310Crew respond instantly to the captain's cry, working iced rigging to avoid disaster.read · scan
- p. 321The mate refuses to be outdone in daring and the crew works with a will carrying sail through a gale.read · scan
- p. 322–323Crew and mate drive the ship to the limit, standing ready as she strains, in daring seamanship.read · scan
- p. 323Mr. Brown, determined to give the ship no respite, presses on more sail in a gale.read · scan
Charles Kingsley, PoemsVol. 42
- p. 1062Hearts of oak and Viking blood braced by the storm.read · scan
Arthur Hugh Clough, PoemsVol. 42
- p. 1121–1122Sailor exults fighting wind and wave on stormy nights.read · scan
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