First, the definition of bravery is presented in different ways throughout the book. Mirette on the High Wire is a great book to explore fear and bravery. Discussing bravery gives children a chance to explore how they reconcile fear and bravery in their own lives.

Moreover, simple peer pressure is an issue when children play in groups. Bullying is an increasing problem for children of school age and is especially important because it is potentially dangerous. However, children are likely to encounter other situations in which bravery is of central value. Bravery is an example of such a virtue.Ĭhildren are told to “Be brave!” on their first day of school and at the doctor’s office. Is there a good way, a better way to navigate the human experience? One explanation is that we cultivate certain virtues that will best enable us to deal with potentially tricky situations. In philosophy, bravery is located within the field of ethics. The issue of bravery is of philosophical value, because it speaks to how humans navigate situations that they will likely encounter in their lifetimes. Essentially, they are thinking about bravery. What should I do when I’m afraid? What if I need to do something that is dangerous? What if I want to do something that is dangerous? What if I want to show people that I can do scary things?Ĭhildren often think of these questions in some form. Read aloud video by Hearts and Heroes Read Aloud Guidelines for Philosophical Discussion He reluctantly agrees to teach her, but in the end she teaches him to let go of his fear. Little does she know, this boarder is actually the “Great Bellini,” one of the most famous high-wire walkers of the day. Mirette Gateaux wants one of her mother’s boarders to teach her his craft: walking along a high wire. Questions for Philosophical Discussion » Summary Mirette on the High Wire offers an exploration of bravery in the face of fear.

Mirette on the high wire book