In her book "The Bookshop," Penelope Fitzgerald highlights the importance of courage as a quality that connects humans to both divine beings and animals. She suggests that courage is a fundamental trait that transcends conventional virtues, elevating it to a more universal aspect of existence. It is a characteristic that one might find in both the brave actions of humans and the instinctual bravery exhibited by animals.

This perspective emphasizes that while traditional virtues may differ among people, courage remains a shared trait with deep significance. This commonality underscores the essential role that courage plays in overcoming challenges and facing fears, reinforcing its status as a vital part of the human experience.