define courage essay

Essay About Courage: Top 5 Examples and 6 Prompts 

Courage covers a range of topics and meanings. Here are examples and prompts to help you write your essay about courage.

Many believe bravery and courage mean the same thing and even use them interchangeably. However, though both describe heroic acts, they are not the same. Where bravery is the lack of fear, courage is taking action despite it. 

Some argue that courage takes more strength because it means sharing your story even though you may be ridiculed, rejected, and misunderstood. It takes courage to admit when you’re hurt or feel lost, vulnerable, and need help. 

If you’re having problems channeling and describing what courage is, here are examples that will assist you in connecting with this subject:

1. My Opinion About Courage by Gary Collins

2. moral courage by fernando wood, 3. courage by benjamin patrick, 4. the importance of courage by saloni, 5. essay on courage by manasi shewale, 1. what does courage mean to you, 2. your most courageous act, 3. a courageous hero, 4. things you are most afraid of, 5. what creates doubt, 6. a time when you failed to show courage and regretted it.

“And even then, she had no grudge against the world. She doesn’t think the world owes her. She never takes money or even grains that she hasn’t earned.”

In this essay, Collins shares his experience with courage through someone named Sunita. Sunita told Collins about her life and what made her who she is. Such as at a very young age, she fought to support herself because no one would have done that for her, and many other tales. 

Her stories made Collins realize how lucky he is and how he should be grateful for the many opportunities that come his way without the need to suffer as she did. He also includes that Sunita lives on to inspire others with her courage.

Check out these essays about beliefs .

“Moral courage is standing up for values such as honesty, fairness, compassion, respect, and responsibility but just having these values are not enough we have to try to put them into practice, and we have to commit to moral principles as well…”

Moral courage is doing what’s right and following what your conscience dictates. Wood has three significant elements of moral courage: principle, endurance, and danger.

He explains moral courage through Geoge Norris, Nelson Mandela, and Malala Youssafzai. These people took risks even if their lives were in danger to follow their conscience and do the right things. Wood instills that moral courage is essential in making a critical move, especially when choosing the greater good.

“Courage is the only thing that gets us through the hard times, and the tempting opportunities. Courage is vital to the evolution of the human population. It is also an essential quality to becoming a successful person.”

Patrick discusses how courage helps a person succeed in life. He mentions that we all have courage, but some use it differently than others.

He gives an example of a girl who plays hockey, where the other members are all boys. They looked down on her because of her gender. But instead of giving up, she took it as a challenge and courageously showed them she could play at their level. She became friends with most of the team, but there was one boy who kept on bullying her. The boy misused his courage, but the girl used her courage to fight him off.

“Courage is mental and moral strength to venture, persevere, and withstand danger, fear, or difficulty. It is the firmness of mind and will in the face of danger or extreme difficulty.”

Saloni’s essay shows two kinds of courage: physical and moral. People who depend on physical strength show physical courage. They can protect and help others. If a person is weak, they are not physically courageous. 

On the other hand, one’s honesty connects to their moral courage. They are the ones with convictions and don’t support evil works. Even if you are a weak person, you can still be morally courageous. Unfortunately, this courage is rare nowadays because people are afraid of being attacked mentally and emotionally. To be morally courageous means to be a fighter to go against wrong-doings.

“It is very difficult to keep up your morals and therefore, gather up the necessary courage to fight against the wrong situations. Therefore, in today’s date, it is even rarer to find a person with the proper morals required to live a satisfactory life.”

Shewale shares little acts of courage in our everyday lives – such as a girl who loves to dance but is afraid of the stage or a person who’s readying themselves for a job interview. Courage is not only shown in grand scenes but in small acts that help us survive our daily lives.

The author further discusses events where courage helps in more controversial fields, such as injustices to farmers and students’ bullying. 

If you want to upgrade your writing style, check out these top essay writing tips to level up your essay.

6 Prompts on Essay About Courage

After reading relevant examples in essays about courage, it’s now your turn to try your hand at creating one. Below are prompts that can guide you in your essay writing:

There is no one definition of courage. It differs from each individual, and its meaning is affected by our experiences and knowledge. In this prompt, share the word “courage” and discuss what courage means to you. When do you feel courageous, and why? Then, describe personal experiences of being courageous or stories of courageous people who inspire you.

Think about a time when you were courageous. Create an essay based on this event and describe in detail what happened. Convey your thoughts and feelings, and show why you were courageous. 

Write an essay about a hero in your life. This could be a celebrity you admire, a relative or friend, or a teacher in school. Describe why this person is courageous, why you look up to them, and how they inspire you. Make sure to include fine details of their personality and how they act. This will make for an exciting and compelling essay.

The first step to being courageous is acknowledging you are afraid. Then, to get your fears out of the way, you need to identify what and why they exist. This prompt lets you connect with your readers who have the same worries. 

For example, you can share that you’re afraid of rejection, being alone, etc. Then, discuss why and what you plan to do to overcome them. You can also write about how you plan to be courageous while still afraid.

Our greatest challenge to succeeding in something is doubting ourselves. When we doubt ourselves, we start to think of all the things that can go wrong. So we show our courage by being afraid of these negative consequences but still trying and hoping for a good result. 

Share an experience when you still tried, even when you’re unsure. It doesn’t need to have the best ending. You only have to prove that it’s better to try and fail than fail without trying at all. 

There will always be times when we desperately want to be more courageous but fail to do so due to various factors. Write about that experience, share your feelings, and what you’ll do if you have the chance to repeat that situation. 

Do you want to write about another topic aside from courage? Check out this list of best writing topics for students !

Maria Caballero is a freelance writer who has been writing since high school. She believes that to be a writer doesn't only refer to excellent syntax and semantics but also knowing how to weave words together to communicate to any reader effectively.

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Definition of courage

• bottle [ British slang ]
• courageousness
• dauntlessness
• doughtiness
• fearlessness
• greatheartedness
• intestinal fortitude
• intrepidity
• intrepidness
• pecker [ chiefly British ]

courage , mettle , spirit , resolution , tenacity mean mental or moral strength to resist opposition, danger, or hardship.

courage implies firmness of mind and will in the face of danger or extreme difficulty.

mettle suggests an ingrained capacity for meeting strain or difficulty with fortitude and resilience.

spirit also suggests a quality of temperament enabling one to hold one's own or keep up one's morale when opposed or threatened.

resolution stresses firm determination to achieve one's ends.

tenacity adds to resolution implications of stubborn persistence and unwillingness to admit defeat.

Examples of courage in a Sentence

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'courage.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Middle English corage , from Anglo-French curage , from quer, coer heart, from Latin cor — more at heart

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing courage

• courage under fire
• Dutch courage
• pluck up (the) courage
• screw up the / one's courage
• (someone's) courage fails him / her
• the courage of one's convictions

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Cite this entry.

“Courage.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/courage. Accessed 10 May. 2024.

Kids Definition

Kids definition of courage.

Middle English corage "the heart as a source of feelings, spirit, confidence," from early French curage (same meaning), from coer "heart," from Latin cor "heart" — related to cordial

More from Merriam-Webster on courage

Nglish: Translation of courage for Spanish Speakers

Britannica English: Translation of courage for Arabic Speakers

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The given prompt: Is it just about facing fears, or is there more depth to what constitutes bravery?

Courage, a word often adorned with grandeur, is a common motif in tales of heroism. But does courage merely mean facing fears? Or does it possess deeper nuances, weaving a richer tapestry of bravery? To understand courage in its entirety, let’s delve into its multifaceted nature.

Undoubtedly, confronting one’s fears is a significant aspect of courage. Whether it’s standing atop a tall building for someone afraid of heights or voicing an unpopular opinion amidst naysayers, facing fears demands bravery. This form of courage is easy to recognize, often met with applause and admiration.

However, courage isn’t always loud or visible. Sometimes, it’s the quiet strength displayed in adversity. Consider a single parent working multiple jobs to ensure their child’s education, or an individual battling mental health challenges, pushing through each day. Their battles might not always be apparent, but their courage is undeniable.

Venture into the realm of ethics, and you encounter moral courage. It’s the will to stand by one’s principles, even if they’re unpopular or come at a personal cost. Whistleblowers, who expose wrongdoings at their workplaces, knowing the potential repercussions, or individuals who refuse to partake in a collective wrongdoing, showcase this form of bravery. They prioritize their moral compass over convenience.

There’s a form of courage that’s less about a moment and more about persistence: the courage of endurance. It’s seen in the marathoner pushing through the last mile, the student who persists despite multiple failures, or the artist who continues to create despite endless rejections. This courage isn’t about confronting a singular fear but about enduring, persisting, and refusing to give up.

So, is one form of courage superior to another? Not quite. Each form of bravery, whether it’s facing fears head-on, showcasing silent strength, adhering to moral principles, or enduring against odds, has its value. What’s crucial is recognizing and respecting these varied bravery forms, even if they don’t fit conventional courage definitions.

In essence, courage is multifaceted. It’s not just about grand gestures or heroic acts. It’s also about the small, everyday decisions, the silent battles, and the will to stay true to oneself. Whether it’s in tales of heroism or the subtle stories of everyday life, courage shines through, reminding us of the indomitable human spirit.

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How to Find and Practice Courage

• Manfred F.R. Kets de Vries

It’s a behavior you can learn.

Leadership expert, coach, and psychologist Manfred Kets de Vries explains that what makes a person courageous is a combination of genetic predisposition, acquired psychological characteristics, social norms, and the context of the decision requiring courage. He argues that courageous behavior, in which the person chooses a course of action that involves accepting risk in order to protect or benefit others, is learnable and offers a number of techniques that he has found effective in helping people find their courage.

In these difficult times, we’ve made a number of our coronavirus articles free for all readers. To get all of HBR’s content delivered to your inbox, sign up for the Daily Alert newsletter.

One of my former students, the CEO of a large, diversified industrial company recently sent me an email to say that he believed “the pandemic was the moment to show the people in the company that management really cared.”

• MV Manfred F.R. Kets de Vries is a management scholar, a psychoanalyst, and an executive coach. He is the Distinguished Clinical Professor of Leadership Development and Organizational Change at INSEAD.

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Home — Essay Samples — Life — Emotions & Feelings — Courage

Courage Essays

Prompt examples for courage essays, defining courage.

Define courage in your own words. What does it mean to be courageous? Explore the different facets of courage, from physical bravery to moral and emotional courage. Provide examples to illustrate your definition.

Personal Courage

Share a personal experience that required you to demonstrate courage. Describe the situation, the challenges you faced, and the reasons behind your courageous actions. Reflect on what you learned from that experience.

Courage in Literature

Select a literary work that prominently features the theme of courage. Discuss how courage is portrayed in the story, the characters who exhibit courage, and the impact of their courageous acts on the plot and themes.

Historical Examples of Courage

Examine a historical figure or event that exemplifies courage. Provide details about the person's actions or the event's circumstances, and analyze why these examples are often celebrated as acts of great courage.

The Psychology of Courage

Explore the psychological aspects of courage. Discuss what motivates individuals to overcome fear and take courageous actions. Consider the role of fear, resilience, and determination in acts of courage.

Moral Courage

Discuss the concept of moral courage. How does one exhibit courage when facing ethical dilemmas or standing up for one's beliefs? Share examples of individuals who displayed moral courage in the face of adversity.

Courage in the Face of Fear

Examine instances where individuals acted courageously despite experiencing fear. Discuss the relationship between fear and courage and how overcoming fear can lead to acts of bravery.

Everyday Acts of Courage

Highlight the importance of everyday acts of courage. Discuss how small acts of courage in daily life can make a significant impact, whether in relationships, personal growth, or social change.

Courage and Resilience

Explore the connection between courage and resilience. How does courage contribute to an individual's ability to bounce back from adversity or overcome challenges? Provide examples of resilience through courageous actions.

Courageous Leaders

Examine the role of courage in leadership. Discuss leaders who have demonstrated courage in their decisions and actions, and evaluate the impact of their leadership on society, organizations, or movements.

Words to Describe Anne Frank

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Courage (also called bravery or valor) is the choice and willingness to confront agony, pain, danger, uncertainty, or intimidation.

Physical courage is bravery in the face of physical pain, hardship, even death, or threat of death; while moral courage is the ability to act rightly in the face of popular opposition, shame, scandal, discouragement, or personal loss.

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Here is All You Need to Know About an Essay on Courage

Heroic moments create feelings of awe, respect, and reverence, which all come together to elicit a euphoric feeling. We all want to be heroes in our own lives, but we often doubt and underestimate ourselves. An essay on courage is meant to celebrate ourselves or those who were able to overcome fear and self-doubt to achieve something truly remarkable. This inspires readers to be bold and fearless in times of difficulty and uncertainty. The essay can take on a descriptive, expository, analytical, or even argumentative angle. Regardless of the style, it must be able to clearly define and illustrate bravery.

Here we provide all the needed info to write the essay that scores high!

Table of Contents

What is Courage Essay and How Do You Write One?

A courage essay is meant to describe or depict what it means to be courageous. The essay can be based on the author’s actions or the actions of those around them. Alternatively, the essay can be about a prolific or historical figure who showed courage against all the odds. Defining courage can be difficult as it is often very subjective. Courage has different definitions for different people based on their values, experiences, and environments. You can imagine a schoolteacher and a soldier discussing bravery. They would have very different ideas!

Some consider courage to be a lack of fear in circumstances that would undoubtedly elicit fear. Others see it as the ability to persevere through difficult times. Actions that some consider being courageous may be deemed as reckless and rash by others. To some courage is about taking risks but to others, courage is knowing when to back down.

Regardless of the definition, what is clear is that courage is a trait most people yearn to possess, and that is why people love to write and read about it. Writing about courage doesn’t have to be difficult at all because courage can be whatever you want it to be. You just have to convince readers to see the courage too.

The John F. Kennedy Profiles in Courage Essay Contest

You may be wondering why you would ever be required to write an essay based on courage. Well, thousands of students write courage essays every year as part of the John F. Kennedy profiles in courage essay contest. In case you have never heard of it, the contest tasks American high school students with writing a unique and imaginative essay that shows their comprehension of political courage as portrayed by John F. Kennedy. While serving as Senator of Massachusetts and recovering from surgery in 1956, Kennedy authored the acclaimed book Profiles in Courage. The book is a collection of biographies of eight American Senators whose actions stood out to Kennedy. The biographies depict political moments of courage, bravery, and integrity exemplified by the Senators. Some of the Senators featured include John Quincy Adams, Sam Houston, George Norris, and Lucius Lamar.

The essay contest challenges students to identify politicians and lawmakers who have shown courage and fearlessness by taking a stand on ethical principles. Students must be able to do this in under 1,000 words and are encouraged to feature elected officials who have not previously been written about. The short essay on courage pretty much tasks students to carry on the work of John F. Kennedy by celebrating individuals who have proven to be courageous in politics. A $10,000 scholarship is awarded to the winner, and they have the honor of accepting their prize at the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library in Boston. The runner-up, finalists, and semi-finalists all receive a cash prize towards their college tuition.

Here Are Some Great Courage Essay Examples

Courage is a rich topic, and there are numerous ways you can write about it. These are a few courage essay ideas that can help you get those creative juices flowing.

• The meaning of courage

This is a multi-faceted topic that gives you the chance to define courage from your perspective. You may have come across different types of courage. Sometimes it’s simple deeds that go uncelebrated while other times it’s remarkable deeds that receive great praise and recognition. A definition essay on courage allows you to write about what courage truly means to you.

• Courage when faced with death

Death is inevitable, but no one is ever truly ready to die. Death scares us all which is why it takes immense courage to face death head on. Think of someone who put their lives at risk for the sake of others. Or someone who is nearing death and handling the inevitable courageously.

• Courage to take a stand

It takes courage to sacrifice your comfort and freedom for others. Taking a stand and saying no to the vices in society is brave. Write about a moment where you or someone else was brave enough to say no and the consequences of this decision. For a moral courage essay, think of activists, revolutionaries, or the ordinary people whose bravery changed the world.

• Courage to be yourself

We are all unique, and yet we spend our lives trying so hard to fit in. Standing out of the crowd is courageous because most people prefer to conform to please others. Courageous people remain true to themselves in a world that is constantly trying to change them. Think of someone who always speaks their truth, no matter what others think. Someone who isn’t afraid to be themselves.

• Courage to overcome

They say life can be unfair. And it truly can be for some people. Think of people who have endured great tragedy and still managed to keep going. Or those who started off life with a great disadvantage but never gave up.

• How to build courage

Are we born with courage, or does it manifest when we need it most? Think of the factors that go into courage – genetics, environment, personality, resilience, and experiences. What advice would you give someone who is in dire need of some courage?

We hope these courage essay examples help give you a better idea of what is required. If you’re still having difficulty putting your thoughts together about what is courage essay, then you’re in luck! Our writing services are available to you.

We Can Help You Write Your Courage Definition Essay!

Writing an essay regarding courage does not require courage. All it requires is help from someone who wants to see you succeed. We are here to provide you with high-quality help as you complete your essay. We have a team of experienced, dedicated, and amazing writers who are capable of handling any angle you would like your essay to take.

If you have been asked to write an essay about courage by your tutor and you are not sure where to start, then we are here to help. As we earlier mentioned, courage has different definitions depending on who you ask. What you might consider being courageous may not necessarily impress others.

This is why many students struggle with writing courage essay. You can provide us with one of the ideas presented above or allow our writers to have free-reign over your essay. Either way, we guarantee that you will receive a well-written and impactful essay that will resonate with your tutor and anyone else who reads it.

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The Six Attributes of Courage

Quotes and exercises to help you be your best and bravest self..

Posted August 23, 2012 | Reviewed by Devon Frye

• Courage is not just physical bravery; it can also mean speaking out against injustice, for example, or taking a financial risk to follow a dream.
• Courage also means feeling afraid, yet choosing to act anyway.
• Reflecting on one's past displays of courage can help summon more courage for the present.

Courage is something that everybody wants—an attribute of good character that makes us worthy of respect. From the Bible to fairy tales; ancient myths to Hollywood movies, our culture is rich with exemplary tales of bravery and self-sacrifice for the greater good. From the cowardly lion in The Wizard of Oz who finds the courage to face the witch, to David battling Goliath in the Bible, to Star Wars and Harry Potte r, children are raised on a diet of heroic and inspirational tales.

Yet courage is not just physical bravery. History books tell colorful tales of social activists, such as Martin Luther King and Nelson Mandela, who chose to speak out against injustice at great personal risk. Entrepreneurs such as Steve Jobs and Walt Disney, who took financial risks to follow their dreams and innovate, are like modern-day knights, exemplifying the rewards and public accolades that courage can bring.

There are different types of courage, ranging from physical strength and endurance to mental stamina and innovation . The below quotes demonstrate six different ways in which we define courage. Which are most relevant to you? In the last section, I present an exercise to help you define and harness your own courage.

1. Feeling Fear Yet Choosing to Act

“Bran thought about it. 'Can a man still be brave if he's afraid?' 'That is the only time a man can be brave,' his father told him.” —George R.R. Martin, A Game of Thrones

" Fear and courage are brothers." —Proverb

"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 fear." —Nelson Mandela

"There is no living thing that is not afraid when it faces danger. The true courage is in facing danger when you are afraid." —L.Frank Baum, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz

"Being terrified but going ahead and doing what must be done—that's courage. The one who feels no fear is a fool, and the one who lets fear rule him is a coward." —Piers Anthony

"Courage is about doing what you're afraid to do. There can be no courage unless you're scared. Have the courage to act instead of react." —Oliver Wendell Holmes

2. Following Your Heart

“Passion is what drives us crazy, what makes us do extraordinary things, to discover, to challenge ourselves. Passion is and should always be the heart of courage.” —Midori Komatsu

"And most important, have the courage to follow your heart and intuition . They somehow already know what you truly want to become. Everything else is secondary.” —Steve Jobs, Stanford commencement speech, June 2005

"To dare is to lose one’s footing momentarily. To not dare is to lose oneself."
 —Soren Kierkegaard

“It takes courage...to endure the sharp pains of self discovery rather than choose to take the dull pain of unconsciousness that would last the rest of our lives.” —Marianne Williamson, "Return to Love: Reflections on the Principles of 'A Course in Miracles'"

3. Persevering in the Face of Adversity

"When we are afraid, we ought not to occupy ourselves with endeavoring to prove that there is no danger, but in strengthening ourselves to go on in spite of the danger." —Mark Rutherford

"A hero is no braver than an ordinary man, but he is braver five minutes longer." —Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803-1882)

"Most of our obstacles would melt away if, instead of cowering before them, we should make up our minds to walk boldly through them." —Orison Swett Marden (1850-1924)

"Courage doesn't always roar. Sometimes courage is the little voice at the end of the day that says, 'I'll try again tomorrow.'" —Mary Anne Radmacher

“'Go back?' he thought. 'No good at all! Go sideways? Impossible! Go forward? Only thing to do! On we go!' So up he got, and trotted along with his little sword held in front of him and one hand feeling the wall, and his heart all of a patter and a pitter.” —J.R.R. Tolkien, The Hobbit

“It's not the size of the dog in the fight, it's the size of the fight in the dog.” —Mark Twain

4. Standing Up for What Is Right

"Sometimes standing against evil is more important than defeating it. The greatest heroes stand because it is right to do so, not because they believe they will walk away with their lives. Such selfless courage is a victory in itself." —N.D. Wilson, Dandelion Fire

"Speak your mind, even if your voice shakes." —Maggie Kuhn, social activist

"From caring comes courage." —Lao Tzu

" Anger is the prelude to courage." —Eric Hoffer

5. Expanding Your Horizons; Letting Go of the Familiar

"Man cannot discover new oceans unless he has the courage to lose sight of the shore." —Lord Chesterfield

“This world demands the qualities of youth; not a time of life but a state of mind, a temper of the will, a quality of the imagination , a predominance of courage over timidity, of the appetite for adventure over the life of ease.” —Robert F. Kennedy

"Life shrinks or expands in proportion to one's courage." —Anais Nin

6. Facing Suffering With Dignity or Faith

“There is no need to be ashamed of tears, for tears bear witness that a man has the greatest of courage, the courage to suffer.” —Viktor Frankl

"The ideal man bears the accidents of life with dignity and grace, making the best of circumstances." —Aristotle

"Until the day of his death, no man can be sure of his courage." —Jean Anoulh

"A man of courage is also full of faith." —Marcus Tullius Cicero

Courage-Building Exercise

For this exercise, you will need a notebook and pen, as well as a quiet, uninterrupted space in which you can reflect. Beginning with the first definition of courage—"feeling afraid yet choosing to act"—answer the following questions:

Think of a situation as an adult when you felt afraid, yet chose to face your fear.

• What did you observe, think, and feel at the time? (e.g., "I saw the rollercoaster and felt butterflies in my stomach")
• What did you or the people around you say, think, and do to help you face your fear? (e.g., "I told myself that if little kids could go on it, so could I")
• At what point did your fear start to go down? How did you feel afterwards?
• Now, think back on a situation in childhood in which you faced your fear. How was it the same or different than the first situation?
• Finally, think of a situation you are currently facing that creates fear or anxiety . What are you most afraid of? (e.g., being fired if I ask my boss for a raise)
• Now, is there a way to apply the same skills you used in the two earlier situations to be more courageous in this situation? Remind yourself that you have these skills and have used them successfully in the past. What mental or environmental barriers stand in the way of using these skills? How can you cope with or get rid of these barriers?

Repeat this exercise over the course of a week, using each definition of courage above. On Day 7, come up with your own definition of courage that is most meaningful to you and repeat the whole exercise using this definition.

Melanie Greenberg, Ph.D. , is a licensed clinical psychologist and life coach practicing internationally via distance technologies. She is a former professor, national speaker, and the author of The Stress Proof Brain .

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Courage - Essay Samples And Topic Ideas For Free

Courage, often heralded as a noble virtue, encompasses the ability to confront fear, danger, or adversity, whether for a cause or personal principle. Essays on courage could explore various definitions and examples of courage in historical, literary, or contemporary contexts. Discussions might delve into the psychological and moral dimensions of courage, exploring the factors that motivate courageous actions and the consequences that follow. The discourse may also explore the relationship between courage and other virtues or values, such as integrity, perseverance, and justice. A substantial compilation of free essay instances related to Courage you can find at PapersOwl Website. You can use our samples for inspiration to write your own essay, research paper, or just to explore a new topic for yourself.

To Kill a Mockingbird: Themes of Courage and Heroism

In the Novel To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee, there are several themes that are shown; however, one of the most exceedingly valued is courage. Courage is shown by assuredly every character in this book, but just a few examples are Boo Radley, Scout Finch, and Atticus Finch. In the novel, Boo Radley showed a plethora of courage and heroism. In one situation Boo saved Scout and Jem from Bob Ewell, who assailed them while they were on their […]

Essay on “Brené Brown: the Call to Courage”

My mom visited recently and we were watching a new show on Netflix. It’s called Brené Brown: The Call to Courage. With humor and empathy, she challenges her audience to choose courage over comfort. Not only does she give real-life examples of how she chooses courage over comfort in her own life, but equips and encourages her audience to do the same. As a self-proclaimed introvert, Brown is a living example of how Christ desires our lives to look. When […]

Beowulf and Sir Gawain: Compare and Contrast

Beowulf and Sir Gawain are very noble and honorable warriors. But, they are both very different. In both the epic poems they relate back to heroes that are “legendary” and have “awe-inspiring lore”, having the protagonists undergo strenuous journeys and fulfilling their deeds of good riches. Creating the image of their struggles and how they overcame it in their society. To start they are both heros, A hero is the main character in a story who is noble and courageous, […]

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Undaunted Courage Lewis and Clark Expedition

Introduction The Lewis and Clark Expedition, probably the most well known, most important expedition to North America. It was key to the westward expansion of the United States. Jefferson bought the Louisiana territory in 1801, thank you France. He wanted to know what was there, he wanted to know what he bought. So his friend Meriwether lewis was called up or I should say written up and was asked to explore the recently bought territory and report back with a […]

An Act of Courage of Rosa Parks

Weber refers to vocational politicians who follow the Ethic of Conviction as ‘windbags’ nine out of ten times. Despite that portrayal, he recognizes that even a pragmatic individual eventually reaches the point when he stands his ground and believes in his own beliefs. This represents a stance based on idealistic conviction. No matter the individual, everybody has drawn lines that they feel should not be crossed, no matter the ultimate consequence. So while Weber posits these two modes of thinking […]

Living the Army Values

Every career has a basis or rules that guide its members' conduct. Moral principles or values distinguish a person’s personality from their character. Army values are the main constituents that keep its members accountable. This paper defines the army values and expounds on the importance and hard work employed to sustain the core values. The army comprises seven fundamental values to guide and train to impart discipline in the institution. The core basic army standards are derived from the acronym […]

Exploring the Spectrum of Courage: an Odyssey through Words that Define Valor

Courage, often revered as a quintessential virtue, is a multifaceted trait encapsulating bravery, resilience, and audacity in the face of adversity. Beyond the confines of a single word, the lexicon of human language offers a rich tapestry of terms that encapsulate the essence of courage, each carrying its nuanced connotations and shades of valor. Bravery, the stalwart companion of courage, embodies the readiness to confront danger or adversity without flinching. It denotes the audacity to stand firm in the face […]

Epic Courage Rendition: Unraveling the Legacy of ‘300 Spartans’ on the Silver Screen

In the pantheon of cinematic marvels, "300 Spartans" stands as a titanic portrayal of valor, sacrifice, and the indomitable human spirit. This cinematic epic, inspired by the historic Battle of Thermopylae, immortalizes the legendary stand of King Leonidas and his Spartan warriors against the vast Persian army, leaving an indelible mark on the tapestry of film history. Released in 1962, "300 Spartans" was a pioneering endeavor that breathed life into the ancient tale, meticulously reimagining the historic clash between the […]

Is Odysseus a True Hero?

Odysseus was a true hero, he showed this through courage and determination and in many other ways. In book one Odysseus shows a great amount of bravery. Combining with his extreme strength, bravery, and high level of intelligence shows how he has supernatural abilities. His bravery comes in to play extremely in book 1 because he fought very well in the trojan war. His troops left him in the middle of the war and he stayed and fought and ended […]

A Skybound Odyssey: Captain Sully’s Journey from Crisis to Courage on the Silver Screen

Capturing the essence of unparalleled bravery and quick-thinking heroism, the movie "Sully" serves as a powerful testament to Captain Chesley "Sully" Sullenberger's legendary "Miracle on the Hudson" and the indomitable human spirit that thrives in the face of adversity. Directed by Clint Eastwood in 2016, "Sully" takes flight as it chronicles the harrowing events of January 15, 2009. Tom Hanks embodies the iconic role of Captain Sully, bringing to life the captain's unwavering composure and the steely resolve exhibited during […]

Unraveling the Essence of Courage

The very essence of human existence thrives on the nuances and dynamism of emotions and virtues, with courage standing out as one of the most celebrated and complex among them. At its core, courage is often defined as the ability to face danger, difficulty, or pain without fear. However, this rudimentary definition merely skims the surface, for courage is multifaceted, deeply personal, and cannot be confined within the boundaries of mere words. When most people think of courage, their minds […]

The Story of Odysseus Moral Lessons

"The story of Odysseus is a long, perilous, and meaningful tale depicting journeys only the most courageous would partake in. I guess that's the point right? Odysseus is a marvelous Greek hero. Odysseus has many traits that are sought after and praised in Greek culture. The reason he is wanted so, is because he doesn't just use his strengths for himself, but instead he helps better the lives of those around him. During, ""The Odyssey"", through dangerous trials and harrowing […]

Courage Caring and Teambuilding

The first indication of the lack of courage in this article was in Carrie herself. After having trained for three months with Kathy and Beth and two months of working independently Carrie was still scared. She had not got used to the unpredictability of the workflow. The other indication of lack of courage was among the night shift nurses. Despite the fact that Carrie was new to the practice and many of the seasoned nurses were harsh to her, none […]

Beowulf as a Hero and Leader

Hero's is a person who is admired or idealized for courage, outstanding achievements, or noble qualities. Beowulf was Epic poem about Beowulf fighting three monsters and defeating two of them. The epic poem Beowulf describes the most heroic man of the Anglo-Saxon times. Beowulf is the hero He shows that he is a great man by always doing brave things, he is a leader and courageous. He shows all of the qualities and traits that a true hero possesses. Throughout […]

Why are the Army Values Important

The military is the face of any country’s patriotism, independence, power, and national security. The army, especially because of its wise commanders, courageous soldiers, and triviality is glorified widely in our history, culture, and mass media. The perception about the army considerably changed in the 20 century, especially because of wars and numerous conflicts, but currently, it is taken as an essential and important part of life (Fowler, 2016). Individuals in the army are expected to uphold various standards to […]

How is Bravery Shown in to Kill a Mockingbird?

In the book To Kill a Mockingbird, the author uses word choice to convey that bravery is the ability to do something that you know is difficult or dangerous and that allows us to find the the mental or moral strength to face our fears and make unthinkable choices. Throughout part one of the book, Atticus strives to teach his children the real meaning of bravery and courage. One way the author demonstrates bravery through word choice is when Atticus […]

Invictus Poem: the Unconquerable Henley

No one on this earth has gone through life without an obstacle being thrown at them. It's a natural part of life, but you should never give up on life no matter what happens. William Ernest Henley followed this motto with everything he did. He wrote a well known poem titled “Invictus”. Invictus means undefeated in Latin (Dictionary) and what a great word for this poem. Henley displayed true courage and bravery by continuing to move forward in hard times. […]

What does it Take to be a Hero Today

Heroes of today lie in ones convictions. It doesn't take super powers to be a Hero. The basic acknowledgment of heroes in our everyday lives can be anybody beginning from the firemen, police, military, rescue vehicle groups, instructors, specialists, guardians and the sky is the limit from there. An individual can't be viewed as a Hero dependent on their calling. Numerous individuals imagine that every one of the warriors or firemen are Heroes. In any case, it isn't in every […]

Theme of Leadership in “The Odyssey” by Homer

Douglas MacArthur, an Americana general once said, “A true leader has the confidence to stand alone, the courage to make tough decisions, and the compassion to listen to the needs of others.” The Odyssey, by Homer is an epic poem that unravels the Greek hero Odysseus’ 10-year journey back home after the Trojan War. His leadership qualities are emphasized as he encounters monsters and sirens and the wrath of the gods. Motivated by his wife and son who are waiting […]

Act of Bravery in Divergent

Your decision in life comes down to you and the path you choose, but one choice can transform you and your life forever. Veronica Roth created a world that depends on the choices people make in life, because ultimately in this dytopian world, choices define who they are as people. Her futuristic world is divided into five factions that all represent something different; Amity (the peaceful), Abnegation (the selfless), Euridite (the intelligent), Candor (the honest) and Dauntless (the brave). The […]

The Five Knightly Virtues in Sir Gawain and the Green Knight

Dangerous foes, an unfulfilled promise, the perilous wilderness, and the threat of death. All of these and more are part of one of the most amazing poems in history. This is a poem that deals with the forces of good and evil and deciding between right and wrong. In this poem, one young knight must prove himself through virtue and chivalry. He faces the unforgiving wilderness, the temptations of lust, and even death. Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, by […]

Heroism Definition

Anyone can be a hero. A hero is someone who saves lives, speaks up, and supports others no matter what. Acts of heroism can range from a dog helping a drowning child, to a person saving an entire town. A hero doesn’t have to be someone that is famous or strong, making it difficult to identify what a true hero is. Many people are heroes, yet only a few get credit for it. Several acts of heroism can be found […]

Odysseus as a Heroic Individual

Every culture around the world had their heroes, and he is the embodiment of the most admired values and ideals of the people, is someone who has courage and has risked or sacrificed his life for others. A hero was a leader who had not only physical strength, but mental strength as well. He was usually someone that got themselves into danger, and in cases where the average man would suffer, the hero would have enough stamina to survive. Odysseus, […]

Power of Kindness

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The United States Army

The United States Army is one of the oldest uniformed services in the country. We have the most important duty of engaging in ground warfare. We protect the borders of the United States. As a result of this important duty, we have a set of core values. The purpose of my paper is to analyze the core values of the Army. The seven core values of the Army represent what we stand for in ground warfare and safeguard integrity in […]

LOYALTY from a CONFUCIAN PERSPECTIVE

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Relation of Beowulf to Modern Society’s Notion of Heroism

The Evolution of Heroism: From Antiquity to Today What is the image of a hero? In an age where protection and defense are necessary, the concept of a hero came into being: a great defender and a fiercely brave warrior. On the surface, it is all physical. The skilled hero charges into battle, armed with only a weapon and his bravery. The outcome of the struggle ends with the successful slaughter of the enemy horde. The disadvantaged hero conquers the […]

Ernest Green: a Courage in Desegregation

Ernest Green's journey from a high school student to a key figure in the civil rights movement encapsulates a story of courage, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to equality. As one of the Little Rock Nine, the group of African American students who integrated Central High School in Little Rock, Arkansas, in 1957, Green's experience sheds light on the profound challenges and pivotal moments in America's struggle for civil rights. This essay delves into Green's contributions to desegregation and his […]

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Jose Antonio Vargas emerges as a towering presence in both the realms of journalism and activism, his life narrative serving as a poignant representation of the challenges and victories experienced by undocumented migrants in the United States. Hailing from the Philippines and nurtured in the U.S. from the age of 12, Vargas's trajectory from an undocumented migrant to a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and outspoken advocate for immigration reform stands as a testament to his resilience, aptitude, and unwavering dedication to […]

Forged by Courage: Melissa Dohme’s Triumph

In the sun-kissed city of Clearwater, Florida, a tale unfolded, weaving together threads of courage, resilience, and the unyielding human spirit. At its heart stood Melissa Dohme, a young woman whose life became a testament to the power of perseverance and forgiveness amidst the darkest of circumstances. Melissa's story began with the promise of a typical evening out with friends, laughter mingling with the gentle sea breeze. Little did she know that the course of her life was about to […]

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Lesson 1: Defining Political Courage

“In whatever arena of life one may meet the challenge of courage, whatever may be the sacrifices he faces if he follows his conscience – the loss of his friends, his fortune, his contentment, even the esteem of his fellow men – each man must decide for himself the course he will follow."  -- John F. Kennedy

• To have students gain a better understanding of the concept of political courage.
• To apply this concept of political courage to a contemporary or historical person and issue when writing his/her essay.
• Give students a few minutes to reflect upon and define for themselves the meaning of the word 'courage.'
• Have students share and discuss their various definitions of courage. Ask students to distinguish between differing types of courage i.e. physical, entrepreneurial, and political courage.
• Discuss with them the following questions:
• Is courage a desired trait for our elected leaders to possess? Why or why not?
• Is there a lack of political courage among our elected leaders today?
• Has the definition of political courage changed over time?

4. Have students read excerpts from chapter one of John F. Kennedy's book, Profiles in Courage (Please refer to  Appendix 2 ) and answer the questions that follow.

5. Discuss with students if and/or how they would amend their initial definitions of political courage after reading these excerpts from Profiles in Courage.

6. Have the students present their 'finished' definition of political courage to the class.

Questions to think about from Chapter One of Profiles in Courage

Below is a list of questions for students to consider before and/or after reading the excerpts from the first chapter of Profiles in Courage.   

• What are some positive and negative consequences for Senators and Congressmen who adopt the sentiment "the way to get along, is to go along?"
• Are Senators and Congressmen rightfully entitled to ignore the demands of their constituents even if they were able and willing to do so?
• Which of the following statements do you most agree with and why?
• The primary responsibility of a Senator is to represent the views of his state.
• Senators are not special leaders for our state or section, but members of the deliberative assembly of one nation with one interest.

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[ kur -ij , kuhr - ]

Synonyms: intrepidity , dauntlessness , fearlessness , spirit , pluck

Antonyms: cowardice

• Obsolete. the heart as the source of emotion.

/ ˈkʌrɪdʒ /

• the power or quality of dealing with or facing danger, fear, pain, etc
• the courage of one's convictions the confidence to act in accordance with one's beliefs
• take one's courage in both hands to nerve oneself to perform an action
• obsolete. mind; disposition; spirit

Discover More

Word history and origins.

Origin of courage 1

Idioms and Phrases

• have the courage of one's convictions , to act in accordance with one's beliefs, especially in spite of criticism.

More idioms and phrases containing courage

Compare meanings.

How does courage compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• courage vs. bravery

Synonym Study

Example sentences.

When she finally mustered up the courage to look, she felt frightened and humiliated.

We celebrate them by acting with courage and compassion, by doing what is right and just, for while we honor them today, it is they who every day honor us.

It took up a couple weeks to work up the courage to quit, but I did.

We know that true leadership and courage has been demonstrated by workers speaking up, not by CEOs, and Amazon must listen if Amazon wants to be part of the solution, not the problem.

I really came to understand who Liz was, and she had more courage than most people have in the world.

My wife was talking to her on the phone, and I just kinda found the courage to ask her.

The courage of this husband and father is a constant reminder of how much some sacrifice for exercising universal rights.

The highest form of political courage is doing the right thing when the mob is against it.

Absolutely: “Courage I would rank now in the hierarchy of art and love.”

There is the will of the people; the resolve of the political class; the courage of the media; and the authority of the courts.

It is only just to say, that the officers exhibited a degree of courage far beyond any thing we had expected from them.

To be wiser than other men is to be honester than they; and strength of mind is only courage to see and speak the truth.

The look of distress had vanished, and his sincere eyes seemed to shine again with courage and with strength.

Such mutual distrust necessarily creates or accompanies a lack of moral courage.

Again, she was present at the battle of Silan, where her heroic example of courage infused new life into her brother rebels.

Related Words

• determination
• fearlessness

More About Courage

What does  courage mean.

Courage is the quality of being ready and willing to face negative situations involving danger or pain.

A close synonym is bravery . Showing courage is often thought of as facing such situations without fear, but it also involves facing them despite fear. In other words, someone who has courage might not be fearless, but they face the dangerous, difficult, or frightening situation anyway.

The adjective courageous means having, showing, or done with courage. It can be used to describe people who have courage, or the actions of such people when they face negative situations resolutely . A close synonym is  brave .

Example: We should all show our appreciation for the courage of our first responders, who face danger every day but still, somehow, decide to show up and put the wellbeing of other people before their own safety.

Where does  courage come from?

The first records of the word courage come from the 1200s. It comes from the Old French corage, from cuer, meaning “heart” (this ultimately derives from the Latin cor, meaning “heart”).

The heart is traditionally depicted as the center of human emotion, and the word heart is commonly used in a figurative way to refer to courage or bravery—someone who has courage is said to have a lot of heart. Being courageous means that even when a situation is dangerous or scary—when it makes your heart start beating very fast—you’re still willing to face it. But courage doesn’t always involve facing danger. Something as simple as telling the truth when it will result in negative consequences can be courageous.

Did you know ... ?

What are some other forms related to courage ?

• courageous (adjective)
• courageously (adverb)

What are some synonyms for courage ?

• resoluteness

What are some words that share a root or word element with courage ? 

What are some words that often get used in discussing courage ?

• convictions

How is  courage used in real life?

Courage is always used positively. It’s associated with heroic people and actions—like firefighters running into burning buildings to save people—but it can be used in many different situations.

Bravery is having the courage to confront something that is difficult & dangerous. Right now, countless medical professionals are taking care of people suffering from coronavirus. Their bravery in the face of adversity is inspirational. Please thank them. May God protect them. — Dr. Craig Considine (@CraigCons) March 16, 2020

D-Day … I can't imagine the courage that took. Thank you for saving the world from fascism. — Eric Berger (@SciGuySpace) June 6, 2019

“The truth is inside of us, and it’s wonderful when we have the courage to tell it.” pic.twitter.com/15e6rNhUCJ — MisterRogersQuotes (@MisterRogersSay) October 2, 2020

Try using  courage !

Which of the following words is NOT a synonym of courage ?

A. bravery B. resoluteness C. timidity D. valor

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023

Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.

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What is courage?

Courage is the ability to do something difficult even when there's risk. Courageous people do and say what they think is right despite opposition.

Kids build courage as they mature and take on more challenges. As kids increasingly grow up online, often in very public ways, courage is an important asset. It gives kids the confidence to be themselves, risk their own social status to stand up for others, and share their work even in the face of criticism. Some kids like to take bold action to test their courage; some kids take it gradually.

You can help kids develop courage by encouraging them to take calculated risks, supporting their individuality, and allowing them to "fail" safely -- online and off.

Common Sense Media offers the largest, most trusted library of independent age-based ratings and reviews. Our timely parenting advice supports families as they navigate the challenges and possibilities of raising kids in the digital age.

In Speech, Biden Describes Surge of Antisemitism in U.S.

President Biden’s speech at a Holocaust remembrance ceremony came during weeks of protests on U.S. college campuses against Israel’s war in Gaza. He emphasized Americans’ responsibility to combat hatred of Jews, tying the vitriol to Hamas’s Oct. 7 attack.

• Share full article

Erica L. Green and Michael D. Shear

Erica L. Green reported from Capitol Hill, and Michael D. Shear from Washington.

The president is set to deliver the keynote address at a Holocaust remembrance ceremony.

President Biden on Tuesday condemned a “ ferocious surge of antisemitism” in the United States following the Oct. 7 Hamas attack against Israel and said people were already forgetting the deadliest day for Jews since the Holocaust.

Speaking at the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum’s Days of Remembrance, Mr. Biden tied the anti-Jewish sentiment that led to the Nazi effort to exterminate Jews directly to Oct. 7.

“This ancient hatred of Jews didn’t begin with the Holocaust,” he said. “It didn’t end with the Holocaust, either.”

For Mr. Biden, a self-described Zionist, the speech was a clear assertion of his support for Jewish Americans as he struggles to balance his support for Israel with increasingly forceful calls for the protection of civilians in Gaza.

Mr. Biden’s address also comes as protests against Israel’s war in Gaza roil college campuses, with students demanding that the Biden administration stop sending weapons to Israel. In some cases, the demonstrations have included antisemitic rhetoric and harassment targeting Jewish students.

“I understand people have strong beliefs and deep convictions about the world,” the president said. But, he added, “there is no place on any campus in America, any place in America, for antisemitism or hate speech or threats of violence of any kind.”

Mr. Biden also denounced attempts to minimize the Hamas attacks, which killed 1,200 people in Israel and sparked a war that has killed an estimated 34,000 people in Gaza.

“Now here we are, not 75 years later, but just seven and half months later, and people are already forgetting,” Mr. Biden said. “They are already forgetting. That Hamas unleashed this terror. It was Hamas that brutalized Israelis. It was Hamas who took and continues to hold hostages.

“I have not forgotten, nor have you,” he told the crowd of more than 100, including Holocaust survivors. “And we will not forget.”

Since the outset of the war, Mr. Biden has faced criticism from Arab Americans and Palestinians who have said they don’t hear Mr. Biden talk about the plight of their people with the same empathy and emotion that he uses to describe Israel and the Jewish people.

The leader of the World Food Program has said that parts of Gaza are experiencing a “ full-blown famine ,” in part because of Israel blocking humanitarian aid.

Jewish groups have been pressuring the administration to take firmer policy steps to combat antisemitism on college campuses, in particular. On Tuesday, the Biden administration fulfilled some of those requests.

The Education Department’s Office for Civil Rights released new guidance to every school and college outlining examples of antisemitic discrimination, as well as other forms of hate, that could lead to investigations for violating Title VI of the Civil Rights Act.

The law prohibits discrimination based on race, color and national origin, and the department has interpreted it as extending to Jewish students. Since the Oct. 7 attack, the department has opened more than 100 investigations into complaints about antisemitism and other forms of discrimination. The administration also announced that the Department of Homeland Security would also offer new resources, including an online campus safety resource guide.

Nathan Diament, executive director for public policy for the Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations, one of the groups that has been lobbying the administration for more measures for weeks, said that the Jewish community “need them implemented rapidly and aggressively.”

“President Biden’s speech today was an important statement of moral clarity at a time when too many people seem to be morally confused,” Mr. Diament said. “Just as important as the president’s words today is the announcement that his administration is taking more steps to counter the surge of antisemitism in the U.S.”

The president promised that his commitment to the security of Israel “and its right to exist as an independent Jewish state is ironclad. Even when we disagree,” a reference to the arguments his administration has had with Israel’s right-wing government about the toll the war is taking in Gaza. The speech came against the backdrop of Israel’s plans to move forward with a ground operation in Rafah, which Mr. Biden opposes. More than 1 million Palestinians are sheltering in Rafah.

Mr. Biden made a tacit acknowledgment during his speech that the pro-Palestinian cause has resonated with other minority groups with histories of violence and oppression.

“We must give hate no safe harbor against anyone — anyone,” Mr. Biden said in his speech, adding that Jewish people helped lead civil rights causes throughout history.

“From that experience,” he added, “we know scapegoating and demonizing any minority is a threat to every minority and the very foundation of our democracy.”

But Mr. Biden largely focused on the issue at hand. After his address, he stayed to watch three Holocaust survivors, who carried photos and mementos as they recounted their memories of loved ones. They invited the audience to stand and raise black-and-white photos of Holocaust victims that were placed on audience chairs in the air.

Mr. Biden held a photo of four children to his chest.

The New York Times

Here’s what Biden said in his remarks at the Holocaust remembrance ceremony.

President Biden delivered these remarks on Tuesday at the Capitol for the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum’s Days of Remembrance.

Thank you, Stu, for that introduction, for your leadership of the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum. You’re a true scholar and statesman and a dear friend. Speaker Johnson, Leader Jeffries, members of Congress and especially the survivors of the Holocaust. If my mother were here, she’d look at you and say, “God love you all. God love you all.”

Abe Foxman and all of the survivors who embody absolute courage and dignity and grace are here as well. During these sacred days of remembrance, we grieve. We give voice to the six million Jews who were systematically targeted and murdered by the Nazis and their collaborators during World War II. We honor the memory of victims, the pain of survivors, the bravery of heroes who stood up to Hitler’s unspeakable evil. And we recommit to heading and heeding the lessons of one of the darkest chapters in human history, to revitalize and realize the responsibility of never again.

Never again, simply translated for me, means never forget. Never forget. Never forgetting means we must keep telling the story, must keep teaching the truth, must keep teaching our children and our grandchildren. The truth is, we are at risk of people not knowing the truth. That’s why growing up, my dad taught me and my siblings about the horrors of the Shoah at our family dinner table. That’s why I visited Yad Vashem with my family as a senator, as vice president, as president. And that’s why I took my grandchildren to Dachau, so they could see and bear witness to the perils of indifference, the complicity of silence, in the face of evil they knew was happening.

Germany 1933, Hitler and his Nazi Party’s rise to power by rekindling one of the oldest forms of prejudice and hate: antisemitism. His role didn’t begin with mass murder; it started slowly across economic, political, social and cultural life. Propaganda demonizing Jews. Boycotts of Jewish businesses. Synagogues defaced with swastikas. Harassment of Jews in the street and the schools, antisemitic demonstrations, pogroms, organized riots. With the indifference of the world, Hitler knew he could expand his reign of terror by eliminating Jews from Germany, to annihilate Jews across Europe through genocide, the Nazis called the final solution. Concentration camps, gas chambers, mass shootings. By the time the war ended, six million Jews — one of every three Jews in the entire world — were murdered.

This ancient hatred of Jews didn’t begin with the Holocaust. It didn’t end with the Holocaust either. Or after — even after our victory in World War II. This hatred continues to lie deep in the hearts of too many people in the world and requires our continued vigilance and outspokenness. That hatred was brought to life on October 7th of 2023. On the sacred Jewish holiday, the terrorist group Hamas unleashed the deadliest day of the Jewish people since the Holocaust. Driven by ancient desire to wipe out the Jewish people off the face of the Earth, over 1,200 innocent people, babies, parents, grandparents, slaughtered in a kibbutz, massacred at a music festival, brutally raped, mutilated and sexually assaulted.

Thousands more carrying wounds, bullets and shrapnel from a memory of that terrible day they endured. Hundreds taken hostage, including survivors of the Shoah. Now here we are, not 75 years later, but just seven and half months later and people are already forgetting. They are already forgetting. That Hamas unleashed this terror. It was Hamas that brutalized Israelis. It was Hamas who took and continues to hold hostages. I have not forgotten nor have you. And we will not forget.

As Jews around the world still cope with the atrocity and the trauma of that day and its aftermath, we have seen a ferocious surge of antisemitism in America and around the world. Vicious propaganda on social media. Jews forced to keep their — hide their kippahs under baseball hats, tuck their Jewish stars into their shirts. On college campuses, Jewish students blocked, harassed, attacked while walking to class. Antisemitism, antisemitic posters, slogans, calling for the annihilation of Israel, the world’s only Jewish state.

Too many people denying, downplaying, rationalizing, ignoring the horrors of the Holocaust and October 7th, including Hamas’s appalling use of sexual violence to torture and terrorize Jews. It’s absolutely despicable, and it must stop. Silence and denial can hide much, but it can erase nothing. Some injustices are so heinous, so horrific, so grievous, they cannot be married — buried — no matter how hard people try.

In my view, a major lesson of the Holocaust is, as mentioned earlier, it is not — was not — inevitable. We know hate never goes away; it only hides. Given a little oxygen, it comes out from under the rocks. We also know what stops hate. One thing: All of us. The late Rabbi Jonathan Sachs described antisemitism as a virus that has survived and mutated over time. Together, we cannot continue to let that happen. We have to remember our basic principle as a nation.

We have an obligation, an obligation to learn the lessons of history so we don’t surrender our future to the horrors of the past. We must give hate no safe harbor against anyone. Anyone. From the very founding, our very founding, Jewish Americans represented only about 2 percent of the U.S. population and helped lead the cause of freedom for everyone in our nation. From that experience, we know scapegoating and demonizing any minority is a threat to every minority and the very foundation of our democracy.

It’s in moments like this we have to put these principles that we’re talking about into action. I understand people have strong beliefs and deep convictions about the world. In America, we respect and protect the fundamental right to free speech. To debate, disagree, to protest peacefully, make our voices heard. I understand, that’s America. But there is no place on any campus in America — any place in America — for antisemitism or hate speech or threats of violence of any kind. Whether against Jews or anyone else. Violent attacks, destroying property is not peaceful protest. It’s against the law. And we are not a lawless country. We’re a civil society. We uphold the rule of law, and no one should have to hide or be brave just to be themselves.

The Jewish community, I want you to know: I see your fear, your hurt, your pain. Let me reassure you, as your president, you’re not alone. You belong. You always have and you always will. And my commitment to the safety of the Jewish people, security of Israel, and its right to exist as an independent Jewish state is ironclad even when we disagree.

My administration is working around the clock to free remaining hostages. Just so we have freed hostages already. And we will not rest until we bring them all home. My administration, with our second gentleman’s leadership, has launched our nation’s first national strategy to counter antisemitism that’s mobilizing the full force of the federal government to protect Jewish community, but we know it’s not the work of government alone or Jews alone.

That’s why I’m calling on all Americans to stand united against antisemitism and hate in all its forms. My dear friend, he became a friend, the late Elie Wiesel said, quote: “One person of integrity can make a difference.” We have to remember that now more than ever. Here in the Emancipation Hall of the U.S. Capitol, among the towering statues of history, is a bronze bust of Raoul Wallenberg. Born in Sweden, as a Lutheran, he was a businessman and a diplomat. While stationed in Hungary during World War II, he used diplomatic cover to hide and rescue about 100,000 Jews over a six-month period.

Among them was a 16-year-old Jewish boy who escaped a Nazi labor camp. After the war ended, that boy received a scholarship from the Hillel Foundation to study in America. He came to New York City penniless but determined to turn his pain into purpose, along with his wife, also a Holocaust survivor. He became a renowned economist and foreign policy thinker, eventually making his way to this very Capitol on the staff of a first-term senator.

That Jewish refugee was Tom Lantos, and that senator was me. Tom and his wife, Annette, and their family became dear friends to me and my family. Tom would go on to become the only Holocaust survivor ever elected to Congress, where he became a leading voice on civil rights and human rights around the world. Tom never met Raoul, who was taken prisoner by the Soviets, never to be heard from again. But through Tom’s efforts, Raoul’s bust is here in the Capitol. He was also given honorary U.S. citizenship, only the second person ever after Winston Churchill.

The Holocaust Museum here in Washington is located on a roll — road — in Raoul’s name. The story of the power of a single person to put aside our differences, to see our common humanity, to stand up to hate and its ancient story of resilience from immense pain, persecution, to find hope, purpose and meaning in life we try to live and share with one another. That story endures.

Let me close with this. I know these days of remembrance fall on difficult times. We all do well to remember these days also fall during the month we celebrate Jewish American heritage. A heritage that stretches from our earliest days to enrich every single part of American life today. Great American — great Jewish American — Tom Lantos used the phrase the veneer of civilization is paper-thin. We are its guardians, and we can never rest.

My fellow Americans, we must, we must be those guardians. We must never rest. We must rise against hate, meet across the divide, see our common humanity. And God bless the victims and survivors of the Shoah. May the resilient hearts, courageous spirit and eternal flame of faith of the Jewish people shine their light on America and all around the world. Praise God. Thank you all.

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Annie Karni

Reporting from Washington

Speaker Mike Johnson says U.S. universities are ‘hostile’ to Jews.

House Speaker Mike Johnson on Tuesday compared the protests unfolding on American university campuses to what happened at institutions of higher learning in Germany before World War II.

It was the “same elite centers of learning” from which “Jewish faculty and students were suddenly expelled” in Germany, Mr. Johnson, a Louisiana Republican, said in pointed remarks at a Holocaust Remembrance Ceremony at the Capitol. Today, he said, American universities have become “hostile places for Jewish students and faculty.”

“The very campuses which were once the envy of the international academy have succumbed to an antisemitic virus,” he added. “Students who were known for producing academic papers are now known for stabbing their Jewish peers in the eyes with Palestinian flags.”

By the turn of the 20th century, Germany was a thriving democracy. They were on the cutting edge of technology. They had a strong economy. They were highly educated. But that did not stop evil and darkness from overtaking that country. German universities, like those at Strasbourg, were at the heart of renaissance and intellectual life. But it was at those same elite centers of learning where Jewish faculty and students were suddenly expelled, where anti-Jewish courses were introduced and where professors performed horrific pseudoscience experiments on Jewish people brought from nearby concentration camps. We remember what happened then. And now today, we are witnessing American universities quickly becoming hostile places for Jewish students and faculty. The very campuses which were once the envy of the international academy have succumbed to an antisemitic virus.

Mr. Johnson was speaking at the ceremony ahead of President Biden, who also condemned some of the hateful rhetoric and property damage that have occurred as pro-Palestinian protests have swept U.S. college campuses in recent weeks. “To the Jewish community, let me say, I see your hurt and your fear and your pain,” Mr. Biden said.

Mr. Johnson has made the pro-Palestinian protests a main focus since passing a bill to send $60 billion of aid to Ukraine, a move that enraged his right flank. The unrest at universities has offered him a new issue to spotlight, as he seeks a political edge on an issue that divides Democrats.

He visited Columbia University last month, where he called on Mr. Biden to take action to quell the protests , including potentially sending in the National Guard. He announced more congressional hearings with top university administrators. And he brought to the floor the Antisemitism Awareness Act, which would crackdown on antisemitism on campuses — a bill that ended up prompting bizarre backlash from some on the far right.

On Tuesday, Mr. Johnson described in graphic detail the horror of Oct. 7, when Hamas launched an attack against defenseless Israeli citizens, comparing them to lasting images from the Holocaust.

“We have to do all that we can to ensure that evil does not prevail,” he said. “This is a time for all to come together.”

Erica L. Green

President Biden received a standing ovation as he ended his roughly 16-minute speech. He shook hands with audience members before taking a seat next to Speaker Mike Johnson and is watching the next segment of the program, which is hearing from Holocaust survivors and their families.

Reid J. Epstein

That speech was as forceful as Biden has been about the Oct. 7 and antisemitism since the immediate aftermath of the attack. He did not mention the plight of Palestinians killed in Gaza since Israel began the war in response to the Hamas attack.

Biden is finished after 16 minutes.

Michael Crowley

Many Arab-Americans and Palestinians say with anger and frustration that they don’t hear Biden talk about the plight of their people with the same authenticity and emotion that he uses to describe Israel and the Jewish people.

Republicans have tried to use the protests to depict Biden as weak and unable to control chaos in the country. Biden is clearly pushing back on that characterization in this speech and putting some distance between himself and the behavior of some of the protesters.

Katie Glueck

President Biden, who describes himself as a Zionist, is denouncing attempts to minimize the actions of Hamas on Oct. 7, the deadliest day for Jews since the Holocaust.

Biden has been a staunch defender of Israel for nearly half a century . That support is clearly on display in this speech.

Zolan Kanno-Youngs

Biden just noted that the second gentleman, Doug Emhoff, is leading his administration’s antisemitism strategy. Emhoff held calls with Jewish students and Hillel leaders yesterday to discuss their experiences with antisemitism on college campues.

Biden is obviously in a comfortable and familiar place here, asserting moral high ground on behalf of Israel and the Jewish people, as he has been for many decades. He has been less comfortable grappling with the widespread anger over Israel’s war in Gaza and its policies toward the Palestinians.

President Biden speaks directly to the Jewish community, at a time when a number of Democratic Jewish lawmakers have said it feels “lonely” to be a Jew in America today.

Destroying property as has happened on college campuses, Biden said, “is against the law.”

“To the Jewish community, let me say, I see your hurt and your fear and your pain,” Biden says.

This is a much stronger condemnation of some of the hateful rhetoric and destruction that’s been present on college campuses than Biden has given to date. “We are not a lawless country,” he says. “No one should have to hide just to be themselves.”

Biden’s defense of Israel is rooted in a long career in the Senate, as well as his upbringing in Delaware. In his book, “Promises to Keep,” he described hearing his father decry the Holocaust and question how the world did not intervene faster.

Biden precedes his remarks on protests by saying, “We know scapegoating and demonizing any minority is a threat to every minority.”

Biden appears angry while delivering this speech. It is a strong condemnation not only of the Hamas attack on Israel on Oct. 7, but also of the rhetoric that has swept across college campuses during the protests in recent weeks.

Biden also makes clear that Hamas committed sexual violence on Oct. 7 , claims that some pro-Palestinian protests have disputed.

Biden started his speech by diving into the history of antisemitism but within a couple minutes has brought us to the current moment. “Too many people denying, downplaying, rationalizing the horrors of the Holocaust,” Biden says, adding people are also forgetting the atrocities on Oct. 7. “It’s absolutely despicable and it must stop.”

Many U.S. officials have been stepping up their emphasis of Hamas’s responsibility in recent weeks, reflecting concern that Israel is bearing disproportionate blame for the events of the past seven months.

This is a very strong condemnation of the kinds of harassment and hatred many Jews have been described since Oct. 7.

“People are already forgetting,” Biden said, “that Hamas took and continues to hold hostages.”

The hatred of Jews “continues to lie deep in the hearts of too many people in the world,” says Biden, before citing the murders on Oct. 7 as a prime example of such ongoing antisemitism.

This ancient hatred of Jews didn’t begin with the Holocaust. It didn’t end with the Holocaust either. Or after — even after our victory in World War II. This hatred continues to lie deep in the hearts of too many people in the world. And requires our continued vigilance and outspokenness. That hatred was brought to life in Oct. 7 in 2023. On a sacred Jewish holiday, the terrorist group Hamas unleashed the deadliest day of the Jewish people since the Holocaust, driven by ancient desire to wipe out the Jewish people off the face of the earth. Over 1,200 innocent people — babies, parents, grandparents slaughtered in their kibbutz, massacred at a music festival.

Biden warns that the country and the world are at risk of forgetting the lessons of the Holocaust and is running through a brief history of how the Nazis moved toward the slaughter of Jews in concentration camps.

The cable networks have broken away from covering Donald Trump’s criminal trial to carry President Biden’s speech.

President Biden has entered Emancipation Hall to a standing ovation.

Hakeem Jeffries, the House minority leader, gets claps in the audience when he went on to include racism, sexism, Islamophobia and other forms of hate in his call to eradicate antisemitism. That is notable given the tension between Jewish and other minority communities over the Israel-Hamas war. Some in the audience also stood at the end of his remarks.

Representative Hakeem Jeffries, Democrat of New York and minority leader, noted that Oct. 7 marked the largest loss of Jewish life on a single day since the Holocaust. “We are witnessing a deeply disturbing rise in antisemitism on campuses,” he says. Jeffries last week voted for the Antisemitism Awareness Act, which would crack down on antisemitic speech on college campuses. The legislation divided Democrats — 70 voted against it, expressing concerns that its purpose would legally make criticism of Israeli policy antisemitism.

A bill could withhold funding for schools that fail to restrict antisemitism on campus.

A bipartisan push in Congress to enact a law cracking down on antisemitic speech on college campuses has prompted a backlash from far-right lawmakers and activists, who argue it could outlaw Christian biblical teachings.

The House passed the legislation, called the Antisemitism Awareness Act, overwhelmingly last week, and Senate leaders in both parties were working behind the scenes on Thursday to determine whether it would have enough backing to come to a vote in that chamber.

House Republicans rolled the bill out as part of their efforts to condemn the pro-Palestinian protests that have surged at university campuses across the country, and to put a political squeeze on Democrats, who they have accused of tolerating antisemitism to please their liberal base.

But in trying to use the issue as a political cudgel against the left, Republicans also called attention to a rift on the right. Some G.O.P. members said they firmly believe that Jews killed Jesus Christ, and argued that the bill — which includes such claims in its definition of antisemitism — would outlaw parts of the Bible.

The bill would for the first time enshrine a definition of antisemitism into federal law, and instruct the Education Department to consider it when investigating allegations of discrimination against Jews on college campuses. That could lead to federal funds being withheld from colleges or universities that fail to restrict a broad range of statements covered by the definition, which includes “denying the Jewish people their right to self-determination” and claiming that Israel’s existence is a “racist endeavor.”

Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene, Republican of Georgia, said she opposed the bill because it “could convict Christians of antisemitism for believing the Gospel that says Jesus was handed over to Herod to be crucified by the Jews.”

Johnson pledges “unequivocal support to the nation of Israel.” He has also extended an invitation to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel to address a joint session of Congress. A date has not yet been set.

Johnson is giving graphic descriptions of what happened to individuals on Oct. 7, when Hamas launched an attack against defenseless Israeli citizens. “We have to do all that we can to ensure that evil does not prevail,” he says. “This is a time for all to come together.” He said that he was proud that Congress passed a security package to send billions of dollars in assistance to Israel. “We told the world, Israel and the Jewish people are not alone,” he said. It's notable that Johnson makes no mention of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. That aid package included more than $9 billion in humanitarian aid for Gaza and Ukraine — something Democrats insisted be included in the package.

House Speaker Mike Johnson is comparing the protests unfolding on university campuses to what happened in Germany during World War II. He said it was the “same elite centers of learning” from which “Jewish faculty and students were suddenly expelled” in Germany. Today, he said, American universities have become “hostile places for Jewish students and faculty.”

President Biden has been criticized for his muted response to protests on college campuses against the Israel-Hamas war. Those protests have included instances of antisemitic episodes, and his administration says we can expect that Biden will use the protests to strongly condemn antisemitism. He is also expected to draw parallels between the response to the Holocaust and Oct. 7 Hamas attacks.

Republicans are trying to present themselves as the true friends of Jews, Israel and the leaders fighting antisemitism on college campuses. It’s worth remembering that those leading the fight are accolytes of former President Donald J. Trump, who in 2017 issued a statement International Holocaust Remembrance Day that omitted any mention of Jews or antisemitism . The statement referenced the “victims, survivors, heroes of the Holocaust.” It made no mention of the fact that 6 million Jews were murdered because they were Jews, as past presidents had done.

Dana Goldstein and Sarah Mervosh

A House committee will examine reports of antisemitism in K-12 schools.

School district officials have faced off with students, parents, school board members and teachers about issues related to the Israel-Hamas war — but until now, not members of Congress.

On Wednesday, leaders from three public school districts — New York City; Berkeley, Calif.; and Montgomery County in Maryland — are scheduled to be questioned by members of the House Committee on Education and the Workforce, which has grilled four college presidents on accusations of campus antisemitism, helping to topple two of them .

The three school districts, all diverse, have robust American Jewish communities. They are also in staunchly liberal areas, making them ripe targets for the Republicans who run the committee. And they have had their share of controversies.

In New York City, an elementary school posted a map of the “Arab world” that did not label Israel, identifying the country as “Palestine.” In Montgomery County, outside Washington, swastikas have been drawn on school desks. And in Berkeley, several teachers presented lessons that referred to Israeli “apartheid” against Palestinians.

The district leaders — David C. Banks, chancellor of New York City schools; Enikia Ford Morthel, superintendent of Berkeley schools; and Karla Silvestre, the school board president in Montgomery County — must walk a tightrope at the hearing. They are likely to face complex questions about free speech and the point at which protest of Israel veers into antisemitism. Those are matters of contentious debate, both nationally and in their own communities.

In addition to the House hearing, the Education Department is investigating the districts for their handling of antisemitism accusations, after the Oct. 7 Hamas-led attack on Israel. Muslim and pro-Palestinian organizations have also said that many public schools are hostile to their views, whether by omitting Palestinian history from the curriculum or by limiting pro-Palestinian speech.

While the specific incidents may differ from those discussed at the college antisemitism hearings, “the underlying issue is the same,” said Representative Kevin Kiley, Republican of California, who is a committee member. “We’re trying to ensure that campuses, whether secondary school or college campus, are safe for students and complying with civil rights laws.”

Troy Closson contributed reporting.

As the Holocaust remembrance ceremony begins, Holocaust survivors and members of Congress have filed into Emancipation Hall on Capitol Hill to a somber violin solo. President Biden is scheduled to deliver his keynote address at 11:30.

Reporters at the White House are gathering to cover President Biden’s departure to Capitol Hill. When it comes to protests on college campuses, Biden will likely follow up on his comments from last week and draw a distance between the White House and the protests by condemning any antisemitism and vandalism taking place. It is less clear how much time he will spend talking about Israel’s war against Hamas. As Biden speaks, Israeli tanks are in Rafah — the Biden administration has said it opposes an incursion into the southernmost city in Gaza without a detailed plan for evacuating hundreds of thousands of Palestinians there.

Ahead of Biden’s speech, Representative Don Bacon, Republican of Nebraska, said he planned to release on Tuesday afternoon his resolution to formally rebuke Representative Ilhan Omar , Democrat of Minnesota, for recent comments in which she suggested that some Jewish students at Columbia University were “pro-genocide.” Bacon, who represents a district Biden won in 2020, has a hard-right challenger in his primary.

Omar made the statement while visiting the Morningside Heights campus in New York to stand in solidarity with the pro-Palestinian protesters, including her daughter, who is a student activist there.

“I think it is really unfortunate that people don’t care about the fact that all Jewish kids should be kept safe,” she said when asked about antisemitism on campus. “We should not have to tolerate antisemitism or bigotry for all Jewish students, whether they’re pro-genocide or anti-genocide.”

As the protests have spread on colleges across the country, Biden has been at his most forceful when it comes to denouncing antisemitism on campus. It’s the area that he’s seemed to feel most comfortable wading into, while taking more cautious steps on the issue of free speech on campuses.

Mitch Smith ,  Jamie Kelter Davis and Yan Zhuang

On college campuses, pro-Palestinian protesters urge supporters to rally nationwide.

Galvanized by an Israeli military incursion into Gaza’s southern end, pro-Palestinian demonstrators escalated campus protests and urged supporters to rally on Tuesday across the United States, thwarting university officials’ hopes of minimizing disruptions ahead of commencement events.

Protests are scheduled on Tuesday at campuses including the University of California, Berkeley; California State University, Los Angeles; and the University of Washington.

Early on Tuesday, police officers removed the pro-Palestinian protest encampment at the University of Chicago, a move that was sure to be closely watched across higher education because the university has long considered itself a model for free expression on campus .

Arrests on Monday have raised the total number of people detained on campuses to more than 2,500 at 50 schools since April 18, according to a New York Times tally .

The protests have affected spring graduations. Columbia University officials announced the cancellation of its main graduation ceremony , citing security as a main reason. Other schools across the country have adjusted their ceremonies or increased security.

The speech is an opportunity for Biden to stake a claim on the political middle — putting daylight between himself and protesters who represent a far-left wing of American politics. He ran a similar political playbook nearly four years ago, when protestors across the country pushed for police departments to be defunded. Biden resisted, calling for more resources to be sent to local law enforcement.

President Biden’s speech on antisemitism today will be his first major speech on the protests that have roiled college campuses for weeks, and follows a brief unscheduled address last week. Biden has at times shown empathy toward those publicly pushing for a ceasefire in Israel’s war in Gaza, but as protests have grown larger and student demands have grown, he has been mostly silent.