Question 123 — Fortitude

After considering justice we must in due sequence consider fortitude. We must (1) consider the virtue itself of fortitude; (2) its parts; (3) the gift corresponding thereto; (4) the precepts that pertain to it.

Concerning fortitude three things have to be considered: (1) Fortitude itself; (2) its principal act, viz. martyrdom; (3) the vices opposed to fortitude.

Under the first head there are twelve points of inquiry:

(1) Whether fortitude is a virtue?

• (2) Whether it is a special virtue?
• (3) Whether fortitude is only about fear and daring?
• (4) Whether it is only about fear of death?
• (5) Whether it is only in warlike matters?
• (6) Whether endurance is its chief act?
• (7) Whether its action is directed to its own good?
• (8) Whether it takes pleasure in its own action?
• (9) Whether fortitude deals chiefly with sudden occurrences?
• (10) Whether it makes use of anger in its action?
• (11) Whether it is a cardinal virtue?
• (12) Of its comparison with the other cardinal virtues.