abstract
| - The Seven Heavenly Virtues are seven basic concepts that will lead your soul to honor. Repeated in various forms throughout the world (and beyond), the universally assorted ways to be virtuous have many combinations and permutations, as shown in the examples below. However, the general gist of them can be found in this list - seven essential personality traits which guide people in morality. Undeniably, these are the basic "rules of behavior" for any true hero, veiled or otherwise. They differ somewhat from the three theological virtues (love, hope, faith) and the four cardinal virtues (prudence, justice, temperance and fortitude) combined. In alphabetical order, here are the big seven (each of which conveniently corresponds to one of the Seven Deadly Sins), along with some trope examples demonstrating each. Note that this is just one list; there are plenty of others, as shown below. Charity - Being Generous Towards Others. A willingness, or even desire, to help others and better the world, no matter the cost to your personal self. The path of a graceful and noble spirit. The Good Samaritan is this virtue personified. This virtue is the mainstay of The Atoner, and Hurting Hero. An extremely strong sense of Charity, to the point that it overcomes common sense, becomes Honor Before Reason. Using this virtue as an excuse for suicidal tendencies or poor planning results in Martyr Without a Cause, although in a Martyrdom Culture this virtue will more easily extend to a Death Seeker. Opposite of Avarice. Chastity - Being Unhindered by Worldly Desires. The ability to overcome temptation and show self-discipline. Note that the fulfillment of the virtue is not through lack of being tempted, but rather of making the conscious decision to better yourself rather than do what you know is morally wrong. This virtue is especially popular with Knight in Shining Armor types and any who choose to become The Fettered. Opposite of Lust. Diligence - Being Steadfast in Work. Despite the problems that surface, no matter what stands in their way, one with this virtue will accomplish their goals and stay true to their core beliefs. If there is work to be done, they will do their best to get it finished, and properly. This is a common trait of The Cape and those that have Jumped At the Call. This is also the virtue most likely to be held by the Anti-Hero. Opposite of Sloth. Humility - Being Modest in Self. What is fame, but a trapping for the weak? While those with this virtue may not seem like much at first, when all bets are down they will triumph over the loud and crass - if not in sheer power, then at least in poise. This virtue in its purest form is not self-hatred (a common mistake made by those with good intentions but self-esteem problems), but rather a sense of inner knowledge that one does not need to prove their greatness/badassitude to the outside world to actually be Badass. The Supporting Leader, The Cowl, and The Drifter often personify this trope. When used to an extreme, may result in Obfuscating Stupidity. Opposite of Pride. Kindness - Being Good Towards All Life. Everything will be okay somehow! is the motto of those that follow this virtue. Whether times are good or tough, those holding this virtue true to heart will endure in wishing the best for everyone. Embodied by the Broken Hero and The Pollyanna as well as the Friend to All Living Things. Leveling up this virtue to max grants the ability Care Bear Stare. While this virtue may seem light-hearted, beware: if the strength of this virtue in a cute person is not enough, yet they depend on it in the face of adversity, it will Break the Cutie. Opposite of Envy. Patience - Being Peaceful in Goal. A willingness to forgive and show mercy. In the face of adversity they may hesitate, but in the end they will endorse stability, reject revenge, and accept the faults of others without prejudice. This virtue is almost always held by The Medic, Actual Pacifists, and the Iron Woobie. The major fight involving this virtue will involve sheathing your sword. And if, in the end, a true follower of this virtue cannot win the fight on their terms, they will Face Death with Dignity. Opposite of Wrath. Temperance - Being Controlled in Self. The moral decision slopes encountered through life are slippery, and it is easy to descend into unintended but well intentioned extremism. That analogy considered, this virtue is like using crampons made out of justice. Those in command of this virtue realize the legitimacy in several different points of view, and maintain a neutral perspective dealing with issues that might cause Heroic BSOD in others. This virtue often leads to being able to Take a Third Option. This virtue is a specialty of a Badass Pacifist and usually the Guile Hero. Opposite of Gluttony. In addition, an eighth virtue of Justice is sometimes added. For the living personification of these virtues, see Incorruptible Pure Pureness. For virtues common in villains, see Evil Virtues. For the evil counterpart, see the Seven Deadly Sins. Examples of Seven Heavenly Virtues include:
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