Courage consists not in hazarding without fear; but being resolutely minded in a just cause

Courage consists not in hazarding without fear; but being resolutely minded in a just cause

Plutarch, the ancient Greek historian and biographer, believed that true courage was not simply about acting without fear, but about having a strong and unwavering resolve in pursuing a just cause. In his famous work, "Lives of the Noble Greeks and Romans," Plutarch explored the lives of great leaders and heroes who exemplified this kind of courage.

One of the most famous examples of this kind of courage in Plutarch's work is the story of Alexander the Great. Alexander was known for his fearless military conquests and his ability to inspire his troops to follow him into battle. However, Plutarch argues that it was not just Alexander's fearlessness that made him a great leader, but his unwavering commitment to what he believed was a just cause – the spread of Greek culture and civilization throughout the known world.

Plutarch also tells the story of Cato the Younger, a Roman statesman and philosopher who stood up against the tyranny of Julius Caesar. Cato was not without fear – he knew that opposing Caesar could cost him his life – but he was resolutely minded in his belief that Caesar's rule was unjust and that it was his duty to resist it. Cato's courage in the face of overwhelming odds inspired many others to join him in the fight against tyranny.

Plutarch's idea of courage as being resolutely minded in a just cause is a timeless one that continues to resonate today. In our own time, we see examples of this kind of courage in the activists who fight for social justice, the whistleblowers who expose corruption and wrongdoing, and the everyday people who stand up for what they believe is right, even in the face of fear and adversity.

Ultimately, Plutarch's message is clear: true courage is not about being fearless, but about having the strength of character to stand up for what is right, even when it is difficult or dangerous. It is this kind of courage that has the power to change the world for the better.