Book 2 / Chapter 6
Paragraph 1 - The Nature of Virtue as a State of Character
Explanation - Part By Part
"We must, however, not only describe virtue as a state of character, but also say what sort of state it is."
Aristotle begins here by acknowledging that simply identifying virtue as a "state of character" isn't enough. It's not sufficient to just label it; we also need to understand what kind of state virtue is, or in other words, its specific qualities and nature. This sets up the discussion for a deeper exploration into the essence of virtue and how exactly it functions in human life.
"We may remark, then, that every virtue or excellence both brings into good condition the thing of which it is the excellence and makes the work of that thing be done well; e.g. the excellence of the eye makes both the eye and its work good; for it is by the excellence of the eye that we see well."
Here, Aristotle is explaining that virtue, or excellence, is not just about being good in a vague sense—it’s about improving something so that it functions effectively and fulfills its purpose. For example, the "excellence of the eye" doesn’t just mean the eye is healthy or strong—it means the eye is in a condition that allows it to perform its unique function, which is to see. When the eye is excellent, it works properly, and we can see well. So, in general, virtue enhances both the quality of the thing itself and how well it accomplishes its intended role.
"Similarly the excellence of the horse makes a horse both good in itself and good at running and at carrying its rider and at awaiting the attack of the enemy."
This part uses the example of a horse to explain the concept of excellence or virtue. A horse's "excellence" refers to its qualities that make it perform its purposes well. Essentially, a good horse is not only strong, fast, or obedient (qualities that make it good as a horse in general), but also skilled at specific tasks like running, carrying a rider, or remaining composed in battle. In other words, its excellence is both about being a good horse inherently and being effective in its particular roles or functions. This example is meant to parallel how a human's virtue makes them not only a good person but also effective in fulfilling their unique human potential and responsibilities.
"Therefore, if this is true in every case, the virtue of man also will be the state of character which makes a man good and which makes him do his own work well."
Aristotle is driving home the point that virtue, as a quality or "state of character," is what enables a person to be good and to perform their role or purpose in life skillfully and effectively. Just like the excellence (virtue) of an eye allows it to see well, or the excellence of a horse makes it a good horse both in its nature and in its functions (like running or carrying a rider), the virtue of a human being is the quality that empowers a person to live well and fulfill their potential as a human. Virtue isn't just about "being" good but also about functioning well in the human sense. For Aristotle, this connection between character and action is central to what it means to achieve excellence or live a good life.