Book 3 / Chapter 9
Paragraph 1 - Courage and Fear in Ethics
Explanation - Part By Part
"Though courage is concerned with feelings of confidence and of fear, it is not concerned with both alike, but more with the things that inspire fear; for he who is undisturbed in face of these and bears himself as he should towards these is more truly brave than the man who does so towards the things that inspire confidence."
Aristotle is explaining that courage is connected to two key emotions: confidence and fear. However, courage is primarily about how we handle fear, not confidence. A truly brave person is someone who can remain composed and act appropriately in the face of things that would typically invoke fear, rather than simply being confident about things that are easy or comfortable. Courage shines most brightly in situations where fear would naturally arise, because that's when it is truly tested.
"It is for facing what is painful, then, as has been said, that men are called brave."
Aristotle is saying that true bravery is shown when someone confronts and endures things that are painful or difficult, rather than just doing things that are easy or comfortable. Being brave isn't just about being fearless; it's about facing challenges and enduring discomfort with the right attitude. This is why society recognizes and praises bravery—it’s tied to enduring pain or adversity, which requires more strength and character than simply avoiding it.
"Hence also courage involves pain, and is justly praised; for it is harder to face what is painful than to abstain from what is pleasant."
Aristotle is emphasizing that courage inherently involves enduring pain or hardship, and for this reason, it is worthy of admiration. He makes a comparison: it is easier to avoid indulging in pleasurable things than it is to confront painful or frightening situations. Facing pain requires a deeper fortitude, which is why truly courageous individuals are so highly regarded. Courage is not just about avoiding fear or discomfort—it’s about confronting and overcoming these challenges despite the pain they bring.