1. Exposition of the Opinion

6. In answer to the question Henry says in Quodlibet 4 q.23 that, just as one can be disposed to intense pleasures in three ways, namely in a human way, in a superhuman way, and in an un-human way, so can one be disposed thus to inordinate sadnesses.

7. In the human way when one endures terrible things along with their due circumstances; and for this there is a moral virtue, acquired or infused, which however does not enable one to endure without sadness, according to Aristotle Ethics 3.10.1115b10-13 and Augustine On the Trinity 13.7 n.10 [cf. III d.15 nn.102-103].

8. In a superhuman way when one endures terrible things with joy, as was true of certain martyrs.

9. In an un-human but quasi-divine way when one not only endures death with joy but joyfully desires it, as Paul desired “to depart and be with Christ” [Phil. 1.3]. This is proved by Augustine in Homily 1 on John tr.1 n.4, treating of 1 Corinthians 1.10, “Why are there schisms among you? Is it not because you are men?”, where Augustine says “God wanted them to be gods,” as stated in the Psalm, “I said, you are gods.”

10. In this third way the virtue is heroic, and the Philosopher brings it together in opposition to bestiality, which is un-human as to vicious delights, Ethics 7.1.1145a22-23.

11. Henry says, therefore, that the virtues perfect man in a human way, the gifts in a superhuman way, and the beatitudes in an un-human way.