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Definition of Courage

Learn about the many definitions of courage, and reflect on which ones you most identify with.

Creator: @PuzichkinCat

What is courage?

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The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines courage as the “mental or moral strength to venture, persevere, and withstand danger, fear, or difficulty”  

While this may be an “official” definition of courage, courage can take different forms and mean different things to different people at various points in their lives. As a child, courage might be trying to take that first step, not knowing if you will walk or if you will fall. In adulthood, courage might become more about standing up for what you believe in, or taking a risk.

Scientists, philosophers, and artists have ruminated on courage and how to define it for many years, and continue to do so today. Here are some definitions of courage. Take this opportunity to reflect on these definitions, and think about which definitions of courage you most identify with and which you might keep in mind as you go throughout this pathway.

“Who could refrain that had a heart to love and in that heart courage to make love known?”

- William Shakespeare, Macbeth

“It takes courage to grow up and become who you really are.”

- E. E. Cummings

“I learned that courage was not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it. The brave man is not he who does not feel afraid, but he who conquers that far.”

- Nelson Mandela

Useful resources: Quotes on Courage

Challenge:
Before you move on to the next step, reflect on these thought questions

  • Which quote do you most identify with? Are there any you do not agree with?
  • How would you define courage?

You can write your thoughts in your journal or in the text box below.