Disputation I: On Fortitude

ABOUT to treat of Fortitude, I shall institute the chief question concerning Martyrdom, which is the most excellent act of this virtue; for he is strongest who does not doubt to spend his life for Christ, and takes upon himself the whole forces of the Tyrant, and triumphs though conquered. I shall then treat of certain companions and auxiliary troops of this virtue, with which it defends itself against the vices adverse to it: for against Presumption, Ambition, and empty Glory fights that great-souled virtue, hence called MAGNANIMITY; but at its back stands Pusillanimity, against which it also aims some blows: there follow Magnificence, Patience, and Perseverance. All these attend Fortitude at its side, and enter hostile engagements with the vices opposed to them, as I shall say here as briefly as possible: this is the whole matter and series of this twofold disputation which I shall bring forth on FORTITUDE; but first I shall examine whether it is a Virtue, and of what kind.