Abstract

The Aristotelian and Thomistic conception of magnanimity (magnanimitas) has grown on the grounds of the philosophical understanding of high culture in man. It was preceded by the appearance of such concepts as paidéia and kalokagathía. Having ethical excellence (kalokagathía) is an indispensable condition for self-worth and justified pride, called by Aristotle magnanimity. For Aristotle, magnanimity was a typical virtue of the group of valor, in which striving for the good connected with difficulties is significant. Greek culture in antiquity, whose ideals were focused on the term paidéia, had a significant impact on the thought and culture of early Christianity, which grew on Hellenistic grounds. We will see St. Thomas’ conception of magnanimity by analyzing his reflections on virtue as he listed it among the ingredients of the virtue of valor. Considerations of magnanimity can be combined with the explanation of what is high culture in man. The realistic concept of a person revealed that—because of transcendence—the ultimate goal, the end of human cognition and love is perfection. Such an understanding of holiness is synonymous with the highest development of the human person, meaning the state of man that is fully perfect. Man reaches the peak of his development potential, the highest level of culture, when he is united with God.