How did August Landmesser display the virtue of courage? Explores the significance of courage in a society built on democratic principles.

Essential Question

• Why does being courageous and standing up for yourself when others think and act differently matter?

Guiding Questions

• What are some possible consequences of doing nothing in the face of injustice?
• What are the risks of acting courageously?
• What are the elements required to act courageously?

Learning Objectives

• Students will identify the meaning of courage through the example of August Landmesser.
• Students will discuss the complexities of choosing to act courageously in their daily lives. 
• Students will reflect on the importance of courage in a healthy civil society.

Student Resources

• Primary Source Analysis Handout: Unknown.  Hamburg, Germany. 1936.
• Assess & Reflect: Structured Dialogue 

Teacher Resources

• Analysis Questions 
• Virtue in Action  
• Journal Activity
• Sources for Further Reading  
• Virtue Across the Curriculum 

Procedures

• The following lesson introduces students to the civic virtue of courage. It is challenging to act courageously when faced with pressure from a group. Many people in history displayed cowardice to protect themselves and their interests. Students will learn courage is when one stands firm and does what is right, especially when it’s unpopular or puts one at risk.  
• Students will engage with the story of August Landmesser as they consider the question: Why does being courageous and standing up for yourself when others think and act differently matter? 
• The main activity of this lesson requires students to analyze a historic photograph of August Landmesser and learn his story. Students may work individually, in pairs, or small groups as best fits your classroom. The analysis questions provided can be used to help students comprehend and think critically about the content. As the teacher, you can decide which questions best fit your students’ needs and time restraints.  
• Lastly, the lesson includes sources used in this lesson for further reading and suggestions for cross-curricular connections.