Battle Quote by Charles Caleb Colton
“To judge by the event is an error all commit: for in every instance courage, if crowned with success, is heroism; if clouded by defeat, temerity. When Nelson fought his battle in the Sound, it was the result alone that decided whether he was to kiss a hand at court or a rod at a court-martial.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Essays on the Art of Being, Charles Caleb Colton, 1820
Courage can be seen as heroism when successful, but as reckless temerity when it fails; outcomes shape moral judgment.
In simple terms: Success makes courage look heroic; failure makes it reckless.
Key Takeaway
Judge actions by intent, not just outcomes.
Themes
courage
heroism
morality
perception
Mood
reflective
analytical
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- military leadership
- personal risk
- business decisions
- political strategy
Key Concepts
ethical judgment
outcome bias
virtue ethics
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you assess courage when outcomes are mixed?
- Can intent be separated from result?
A Different Perspective
Success may be due to luck, not only courage.
