Pericles: 'It is right to endure with resignation what the gods send, and to face one's enemies with courage.'

It is right to endure with resignation what the gods send, and to face one's enemies with courage.

In his quote, Pericles emphasizes the importance of accepting what fate brings and confronting adversaries with unwavering courage. At its core, the quote encourages individuals to embrace the challenges and adversities that come their way, attributing them to the will of the gods. Additionally, it urges us to face our enemies fearlessly, highlighting the significance of perseverance and bravery in times of conflict.This notion of enduring with resignation and facing adversaries head-on resonates with the stoic philosophy of ancient Greece. Stoicism teaches individuals to accept the things they cannot change and to focus instead on their own virtue and inner strength. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining a calm and rational approach to life's challenges, irrespective of the circumstances.However, let us introduce an unexpected philosophical concept that will bring an interesting twist to the article - existentialism. Existentialism is a philosophical school of thought that emerged in the 19th and 20th centuries, challenging the traditional notions of determinism and predestination. Instead of accepting the will of the gods, existentialism promotes the idea that individuals have complete freedom and responsibility in shaping their lives, and that existence precedes essence.This unexpected contrast between Pericles' quote and existentialism creates an intriguing dynamic. Despite their contrasting views on determinism, both philosophical concepts inspire individuals to face adversity and confront their enemies bravely. While Pericles attributes these challenges to divine will, existentialism emphasizes the significance of personal choice and individual responsibility in overcoming life's obstacles.In Pericles' worldview, the belief in divine intervention may provide solace and comfort during trying times. Accepting the trials sent by the gods allows one to maintain a sense of purpose and meaning, perhaps asserting that the obstacles we face are part of a larger cosmic plan. This perspective offers a sense of resignation and surrender to the forces beyond our control.Existentialism, on the other hand, challenges the notion of a predestined path. It encourages individuals to embrace the freedom to create their own destiny. When it comes to facing enemies, existentialism emphasizes the need to take control of one's life and confront adversaries on the basis of personal values and beliefs. Instead of resigning to the will of the gods, existentialism empowers individuals to stand up for their ideals and fight for what they believe in, thus finding their own inner strength and purpose.While these two philosophical concepts may seem contradictory at first glance, they both share a common thread – the recognition of the importance of courage in facing adversity. Whether one believes in acceptance through divine providence or asserts their own autonomy, both perspectives recognize the intrinsic value of facing challenges head-on and displaying valor in the face of adversity.In conclusion, Pericles' quote prompts us to embrace the trials sent by the gods with resignation and confront our enemies with courage. Through this quote, we can delve into stoicism, which advocates accepting the things that cannot be changed, and existentialism, which emphasizes personal freedom and responsibility. Despite their contrasting views on determinism, both philosophies highlight the significance of bravery and resilience in overcoming life's obstacles. Ultimately, whether we find solace in divine intervention or seek empowerment through personal choice, it is undeniable that facing challenges with courage is an essential aspect of the human experience.