Subject
Courage Books
Best books
John T. (John Thomson) Faris
The Book of Courage
"The Book of Courage" by John T. Faris is an inspirational self-help book written in the early 20th century. The work seeks to uplift and motivate readers, focusing on the concept of courage and its essential role in overcoming adversity and achieving personal growth. It draws upon examples from the lives of historical figures and ordinary individuals to illustrate the many forms of courage, from self-conquest to facing obstacles with resilience. The opening of the book begins with a poignant anecdote about a teacher on the verge of giving up after a series of misfortunes impact her well-prepared classroom, which symbolized her dedication to her students. However, a moment of inspiration from a recovering canary reignites her determination, reinforcing the idea that courage is crucial in times of discouragement. Faris emphasizes the need for courage in daily life, describing it as a fundamental strength that can help individuals confront their challenges, improve themselves, and ultimately, assist others. Through examples of historical figures with strong character and perseverance, he sets the tone for a book that aims to instill determination and hope in its readers.
J. M. (James Matthew) Barrie
Courage
"Courage" by J. M. Barrie is a rhetorical address delivered at St. Andrews University in the early 20th century. The speech, aimed primarily at students, explores the importance of courage in the face of life's challenges. Barrie reflects on his personal experiences and the broader responsibilities of youth towards national issues, especially in the aftermath of World War I. In this address, Barrie emphasizes that courage is the essential virtue needed to navigate the complexities of life and to demand a partnership between youth and their elders in shaping the future. He critiques previous generations for their naïveté regarding the realities of war and encourages the students to actively engage in the political and moral landscape of their time. Using personal anecdotes and references to historical figures, he urges young people to embrace courage not only in adversity but also in the pursuit of truth, understanding, and genuine connection with others. Through his thoughtful reflections, Barrie presents a vision of youth as catalysts for change, urging them to take a stand for their beliefs and responsibilities as they transition into adulthood.
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Ballads of American bravery
Ballads of American bravery by Clinton Scollard is a collection of patriotic poems and ballads written in the early 20th century. It showcases acts of American heroism on land and sea, drawing from episodes in the Revolution, frontier wars, the War of 1812, Texas independence, the Mexican War, and the Civil War. Aimed at students of American history and general readers, it blends celebrated names with lesser-known figures to honor courage, sacrifice, and national memory. The opening of the collection presents a prefatory note explaining the editor’s aim to gather largely historically verified poems of valor, with a few exceptions for breadth, followed by acknowledgments and a contents list signaling wide historical scope. The first section, “In Time of Strife,” begins with Revolutionary scenes (Paul Revere’s ride, Ethan Allen at Ticonderoga, Montgomery at Quebec), moves through early naval exploits and frontier heroics (Decatur burning the Philadelphia, privateers, swamp fighters), then to Texas and the Mexican War (the Alamo, San Jacinto, Monterey), and onward to pre–Civil War Kansas and Civil War vignettes from both sides (Bethel, Hampton Roads, Shiloh, New Orleans, Seven Pines). These ballads emphasize individual bravery—men and women, soldiers and sailors, even a drummer boy—told in stirring, narrative verse that frames history through memorable deeds.
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