Courage is impossible without inner strength, which reinforces a person’s determination to take risks. Weak people are not able to dare to take a bold act, because they hesitate to the last and doubt whether it is worth it without ever finding an answer. Therefore, we often associate courage with fortitude.
The real courage was described by Pushkin in the novel "The Captain's Daughter." His hero selflessly went to death, if only to fulfill his duty and save a loved one. Peter does not betray the oath even when he is threatened with execution. Nevertheless, he has the courage and nobility to refuse the offer of Pugachev. If not for the brave intervention of Savelich, the proud Grinev would be executed. Then he once again proves his courage, saving Mary from the clutches of the traitor, Schwabrin. Then he goes against the order, against everyone, but achieves his goal - rescues his beloved girl. Again, he faces reprisals, and yet he is not afraid, but goes ahead. How is this possible without inner strength? No way. A weak man would betray his homeland and his love long ago, just to save his life.
In Twardowski's poem "Vasily Terkin", in the chapter "Crossing", the hero was not afraid and rushed into the icy water to help out his squad. He swam across the river, risking being shot by enemies. He could also drown, catch tetanus, pneumonia, or something else. However, Vasily was not afraid for himself, but for the outcome of the operation and the fate of his detachment. The highest goal gave him the strength to fight the elements and swim to his own. Terkin completed his task and brought important information about the landing of Soviet troops on the enemy coast. However, he was not proud, didn’t matter, but joked at all the praises and asked for a glass of alcohol instead of the required grinding. A weakling would ache and break, but would not climb into cold water. Only a strong person is capable of this act.
Thus, strength of mind is inseparable from courage, they always manifest themselves together, since you cannot take risks without straining your will and determination. But cowardice is precisely the weakness that feeds fears. Without it, phobias and fears will not grow to full cowardice.
