2 quotations linked to Essays, First Series — Heroism by or associated with Ralph Waldo Emerson, with source notes, explanations and related topics.
Use these links when you want to inspect the wording in its wider work or edition.
“Self-trust is the essence of heroism.”
Heroic action begins with enough trust in one’s judgment to act under uncertainty rather than waiting for unanimous approval.
Source note: Emerson’s essay Heroism identifies self-trust as central to heroic character.
“The essence of greatness is the perception that virtue is enough.”
Greatness is measured by moral sufficiency rather than applause, making virtue a standard that does not require external decoration.
Source note: In Heroism, Emerson connects greatness with the conviction that virtue is sufficient.