I like being brave well enough, but I will be a lazy coward again if you think that would be better

I like being brave well enough, but I will be a lazy coward again if you think that would be better

In the world of Peter S. Beagle's fantasy literature, bravery and cowardice are often explored as complex and multifaceted traits that can manifest in unexpected ways. One of the most iconic characters in Beagle's work, the reluctant hero Schmendrick the Magician from "The Last Unicorn," embodies this duality perfectly. Schmendrick is a character who is constantly torn between his desire to be brave and his natural inclination towards laziness and cowardice.

The quote "I like being brave well enough, but I will be a lazy coward again if you think that would be better" perfectly encapsulates Schmendrick's internal struggle. On one hand, he recognizes the importance of bravery and the need to stand up against evil and injustice. He knows that being brave is the right thing to do and that it is often necessary in order to achieve his goals. However, Schmendrick is also acutely aware of his own limitations and fears. He knows that being brave requires effort and sacrifice, and he is not always willing to make those sacrifices.

Schmendrick's journey throughout "The Last Unicorn" is a testament to the complexity of bravery and cowardice. At times, he surprises himself and others with acts of great courage and selflessness. He is willing to put himself in harm's way to protect his friends and fight against the forces of darkness. However, there are also moments when Schmendrick gives in to his cowardly tendencies and shies away from danger. He is not always the hero that he wants to be, and he struggles with feelings of guilt and inadequacy as a result.

Ultimately, Schmendrick's character arc is a powerful exploration of the human experience. He is a flawed and relatable character who grapples with his own insecurities and weaknesses. Through his journey, Peter S. Beagle reminds us that bravery is not always easy, and that it is okay to be afraid. Being brave does not mean never feeling fear; it means facing that fear head-on and doing what is right despite it. Schmendrick may be a lazy coward at times, but he is also a hero in his own right, and his journey is a testament to the power of courage and self-discovery.