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J., the Stoics prioritized virtue, obviously. They are very explicit that the four cardinal virtues are (i) completely interdependent (you can’t get one without the others) and (ii) marked by an intrinsic moral component.

This means that courage in battle doesn’t count as courage — again, for a Stoic, not for Greeks or Romans in general — unless the battle is a just one. Your example doesn’t fall into that category.

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Figs in Winter
Figs in Winter

Written by Figs in Winter

by Massimo Pigliucci, a scientist, philosopher, and Professor at the City College of New York. Exploring and practicing Stoicism & other philosophies of life.

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