Two separate journalistic pieces published on November 10, 2026, bring ancient wisdom into contemporary discourse, each offering a distinct lens through which to view courage and the acceptance of mortality. One piece, published by Psychology Today and authored by Neel Burton, recounts the life and philosophical trials of the ancient Greek philosopher Socrates. The other, published by El Confidencial in Spanish, analyzes the reflections of Spanish poet Antonio Machado on the death of Epicurus, arguing that fear of death is a futile anticipation of a state we will not experience. While both texts deal with the universal human condition of facing death, they stem from different cultural traditions, historical periods, and philosophical frameworks, making them related thematic discussions rather than reports on the same specific event. [1]
Neel Burton’s article, titled 'The Ancient Secret to Calm and Courage,' provides a detailed narrative of Socrates as a seasoned soldier rather than merely a marketplace philosopher. According to Burton, who cites the officer Alcibiades, Socrates displayed extraordinary composure during the retreat from Delium in 424 BCE. While Athenian soldiers fled in panic, Socrates walked away with such calm confidence that enemy troops left him alone. This anecdote serves as a testament to Burton’s central thesis: for Socrates, courage was not fearlessness, but the knowledge of what is truly worth fearing. Burton draws on Plato’s dialogues, particularly 'Laches' and 'Republic,' to explain that Socrates viewed courage as a form of knowledge—specifically, the wisdom to distinguish between genuine threats and trivial discomforts. [1]
Burton highlights Socrates’ endurance during the siege of Potidaea in 432 BCE as evidence of his unique character. Despite the harsh conditions, including severe frost, Socrates marched barefoot over ice without complaint, earning the disdain of his comrades who thought he was showing them up. Yet, he was not an ascetic joyless of joy; he enjoyed festivals and could drink heavily without getting drunk. Burton notes that Socrates saved Alcibiades’ life in battle but insisted the honor for valour go to the high-born Alcibiades when awarded. This restraint and self-mastery, according to Burton, culminated in Socrates’ trial in 399 BCE. When condemned to death for impiety, Socrates refused to escape or renounce his philosophy, choosing instead to drink the poisoned cup with the same composure he showed on the battlefield. [1]
In Burton’s analysis, Socrates’ defiance stems from his belief that injustice is an evil, while death may be a blessing. To fear death, he argued, is to pretend to know what one does not know. Socrates maintained that it is better to suffer an injustice than to commit one, and thus he remained faithful to his convictions until the end. Burton links this ancient wisdom to modern mental health, suggesting that calm and courage begin with knowing what is truly worth fearing and meeting it with wisdom rather than fear. The less we depend on comfort and approval, the more freely we can live. This perspective frames Socrates not just as a historical figure, but as a model for overcoming anxiety and living a meaningful life. [1]
Contrasting with the active, defensive courage of Socrates presented in the English-language report, the Spanish-language piece from El Confidencial explores the literary and philosophical reflections of Antonio Machado on the theme of death. Machado, a central figure of the Spanish Generation of '98, engaged deeply with the thoughts of the Greek philosopher Epicurus. In his work 'Juan de Mairena,' Machado quotes Epicurus’ famous paradox: 'Death is nothing to us, for when we are, death is not come, and when death is come, we are not.' This statement posits that the fear of death is irrational because there is no subject present to experience the state of being dead. [1]
El Confidencial’s analysis emphasizes that for Machado, acknowledging this logical truth was insufficient to dispel existential anxiety. The poet recognized that understanding mortality intellectually does not erase the emotional pain associated with loss, aging, and separation. Machado warned that 'jumping over death like a matador' is difficult because the consciousness of dying accompanies us daily. The article details Machado’s personal tragedies, including the early death of his wife Leonor Izquierdo in 1912 and his own exile and death in France in 1939. These experiences underscored the gap between theoretical acceptance of death and the practical reality of grief. [1]
Despite this difficulty, the author argues that Machado’s legacy offers a path to serenity. By accepting that the final moment will not be a conscious experience for oneself, individuals can reduce the burden of anticipating an uncontrollable future. This shift in perspective allows one to focus on the present, appreciating the time, affection, and actions still available. Unlike Socrates, who faced death through a lens of civic duty and intellectual integrity, Machado’s approach is more introspective, focusing on the psychological relief found in accepting the limits of human perception. Both approaches, however, share the goal of mitigating the fear that dominates the human experience. [1]
The juxtaposition of these two narratives highlights the diversity of philosophical responses to mortality. Socrates’ courage is depicted as an active virtue, a steadfast adherence to truth and justice in the face of political and physical danger. His calmness on the battlefield and in the courtroom demonstrates a mastery over external circumstances. In contrast, Machado’s engagement with Epicurus presents a more passive, cognitive coping mechanism. It relies on reframing the perception of death to remove its terror, thereby allowing for a fuller engagement with life. Both views are presented as valid tools for navigating the 'ancient secret' of maintaining peace amidst the uncertainty of existence. [1]
Modern readers drawn to Burton’s work may find resonance in the Stoic-like qualities of Socrates’ behavior, viewing his example as a template for resilience. The emphasis on distinguishing between real and perceived threats aligns with contemporary cognitive behavioral therapies. Meanwhile, readers engaging with Machado’s reflections through El Confidencial might find comfort in the intellectual liberation proposed by Epicurus. The realization that death is not an experience to be endured but a condition that ends experience itself can serve as a powerful antidote to existential dread. Both articles, therefore, contribute to a broader conversation about how ancient wisdom can inform modern mental well-being. [1]
Ultimately, the shared theme between Socrates and Machado’s Epicureanism is the rejection of irrational fear. Whether through the active practice of virtue or the intellectual reframing of mortality, both traditions encourage a life lived without the paralysis of anxiety. Socrates’ legacy warns against the corruption of the soul through compromise, while Machado’s voice reminds us not to let the shadow of death obscure the light of present joys. Together, they illustrate that courage is not merely the absence of fear, but the presence of understanding. By integrating these ancient insights, individuals can cultivate a calmness that persists regardless of external circumstances or internal doubts. [1]
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