Courage, at least among those in battle, used to be admired by both sides. One of the finest examples of such is King Richard I of England fighting in a crusade against Saladin in Egypt. Richard's horse had been killed from beneath him, putting him on the ground. Saladin looked at him fighting. Saladin was so impressed with his courage that he personally sent over a horse to him. He was well aware of the consequences of his act, and that his death may have well ended the battle in his favor. Yet his admiration for his fighting ability and courage gave him the impetus to send him aid.

This sort of admiration is now frowned on in our day and age. It blinds us to the abilities and worth of people who can equal or best us in valor, rhetoric, discussion, and thus makes cowards of all to many.