The current appropriation of Ancient Greek and Roman heroism by elements on 'The Right' is unfortunate because there is perhaps a lot to be said for it.
'Adversity has the effect of eliciting talents which, in prosperous circumstances, would have lain dormant.' Few would disagree with that, I feel, and few poets understood the human condition as deeply as Horace.
This Roman poet championed self-reliance, moderation, inner strength and stoicism, and his message appears to have continued relevance today. Because although the virtues inherent within this philosophy have recently come under attack, the ability to meet setbacks with courage, and to navigate life’s unpredictability with a steady heart certainly seems to echo a modern sentiment: Keep Calm and Carry on!