
The article examines Thomas Hoccleve's concept of "manly cowardice" as a strategic approach to peace. It explores how Hoccleve, a 15th-century English poet, uses this paradoxical term to advocate for cautious diplomacy and avoidance of unnecessary violence. The study situates Hoccleve’s ideas within the broader historical and literary context of medieval peace strategies, highlighting how his work reflects contemporary debates about masculinity, honor, and the ethics of warfare.