The cardinal virtues are four virtues of mind and character in classical philosophy. They are prudence, justice, fortitude, and temperance. They form a virtue theory of ethics. The term cardinal comes
An image personifying the four virtues (Ballet Comique de la Reine, 1582)
The four virtues (in the corners) face a scene with King David (center), along with men who served David and who wrote psalms.
Fortitudo or Courage, from the Vivian Bible, Bibliothèque nationale, Latin 1, folio 215v.
Prydentia or Prudentia (Prudence), from the Vivian Bible.
A virtue is a trait of excellence, including traits that may be moral, social, or intellectual. The cultivation and refinement of virtue is held to be the "good of humanity" and thus is valued as an e
Cardinal and Theological Virtues, a 1511 portrait by Raphael
Personification of virtue (Ἀρετή) in Celsus Library in Ephesus, Anatolia
Valluvar (Statue at SOAS, University of London)
Virtues fighting vices, stained glass window (14th century) in the Niederhaslach Church