Bess:
- Loyalty and Defiance: Bess demonstrates bravery through her unwavering loyalty to the highwayman. Despite the danger and potential consequences, she remains steadfast in her support and assistance to him. Her defiance of societal norms and her willingness to risk her reputation and well-being for the highwayman's sake highlight her courage.
- Resourcefulness and Quick Thinking: Bess's bravery also manifests in her resourcefulness and quick thinking during critical moments. When the highwayman is wounded, she takes decisive action, tending to his injury, disguising him as a farmer, and helping him escape.
Highwayman:
- Daring and Courage in Action: The highwayman exhibits bravery through his daring actions and courage in confronting danger. He fearlessly robs the rich, redistributing their wealth to those in need, which demonstrates his sense of justice and willingness to challenge societal inequalities.
- Stoic Acceptance of Fate: Despite knowing the risks of his profession and the inevitability of his eventual downfall, the highwayman stoically accepts his fate. He refuses to abandon his principles and continues his exploits until the very end, showcasing a resolute and unwavering spirit.
Therefore, both Bess and the highwayman display distinct forms of bravery in the poem. While Bess's courage lies in her loyalty, resourcefulness, and support, the highwayman's bravery is characterized by his daring actions, unwavering principles, and stoic acceptance of fate.