Explanation
Passage
When we are suddenly confronted with any terrible danger, the change of nature we undergo is equally great. In some cases, fear paralyses us. Like animals, we stand still, powerless to move a step in fright or to lift a hand in defense of our lives, and something we are seized with panic, and again, act more like the inferior animals than rational beings.
On the other hand, frequently in cases of sudden extreme peril, which cannot be escaped by fright, and must be instantly faced, even the most timid men at once as if by miracle, become possessed of necessary courage, sharp quick apprehension, and swift decision.
This is a miracle very common in nature. Man and the inferior animals alike, when confronted with almost certain death ‘gather resolution from despair’ but there can be really no trace of so debilitating a feeling in the person fighting, or prepared to fight for dear life. At such times, mind is clearer than it has ever been; the nerves are steel, there is nothing felt but a wonderful strength and daring.
Looking back at certain perilous moments in my own life, I remember them with a kind of joy, not that there was any joyful excitement then; but because they brought me a new experience, a new nature, as it were and lifted me for a time above myself.
1. An appropriate title for the passage would be: The miracle of confronting danger
2. The author names three different ways in which a man may react to sudden danger: He may be paralyzed with fear, or seized with panic, or as if by miracle, become possessed of the necessary courage, and face the danger.
3. The distinction between 'inferior animals' and 'rational beings' is that: The latter are capable of reasoning things out whereas the former cannot do so
4. The phrase 'gather resolution from danger' means: A state of utter hopelessness steels one to fight out the danger (or, in other words, finding courage to face danger in a desperate situation)
5. The author feels happy in the recollection of danger faced and overcome because: They brought him a new experience, and lifted him above himself for a time
6. The inverted commas words "Perilous Moments" means: Dangerous time
