Choose a topic from Part 2B:
1. Foolhardiness consists in action that is overbold,unreasonably daring. It is in conflict with reason, and hence is anevil or sin.
1. The parts of a virtue are its subsidiary orassociated virtues; that is, virtues aligned with it, but notcoextensive with it. The parts of fortitude are listed by Cicero(De Inv. Rhet. iii) as: (a) magnificence, or loftyundertaking, with noble purpose of mind; (b) confidence,orfirm hope in the undertaking; (c) patience, or prolongedendurance for virtue's sake; (d) perseverance, or fixedpersistence in a well-considered purpose.
2. Foolhardiness sins against the virtue of fortitude byexcess. It is not a reasonable, and even heroic, enduring ofdanger, but a foolish and unreasonable rushing into dangers thatneed not be encountered. Fortitude regulates fears and impulses inthe face of danger; foolhardiness is ill-regulated and wildlyimpulsive. Hence foolhardiness conflicts with fortitude.
128. THE PARTS OF FORTITUDE
"To think of oneself as nothing, and always to think well and highly of others is the best and most perfect wisdom. Wherefore, if you see another sin openly or commit a serious crime, do not consider yourself better, for you do not know how long you can remain in good estate. All men are frail, but you must admit that none is more frail than yourself.
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Thomas á Kempis
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"For what would it profit us to know the whole Bible by heart and the principles of all the philosophers if we live without grace and the love of God?"
Thomas á Kempis
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"A man should keep himself down, and not busy himself in mirabilibus super se."
St Philip Neri
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