The heroic ideal is inherent in Buddhist teaching and practice and yet it is neglected in many contemporary, popular presentations of Buddhism – often to the extent that a one-sided, distorted account is given. This seminar will explore the implications for our own Dharma practice of this dimension of Buddhist tradition, drawing on material from both the Pali Canon and Mahayana sources. We will focus in particular on the principles of Going Forth, Renunciation and the cultivation of the heroic virtues. A special presentation on Thich Quang Duc – the famous Vietnamese ‘burning monk’ – will also be given.