MN2.8.1 – Seven Liberal Arts

Learning Objectives

By the end of this lesson, the learner will be able to:

• Understand the historical origins and development of the Seven Liberal Arts, from classical antiquity to the Middle Ages.
• Identify and explain the significance of each of the Seven Liberal Arts: Grammar, Logic, Rhetoric, Arithmetic, Geometry, Astronomy, and Music.
• Recognize the etymological and philosophical meanings behind the terms ‘liberal’ and ‘arts’ in the context of Liberal Arts Education.
• Appreciate the practical applications of the Seven Liberal Arts in both historical and modern educational settings.

Seven Liberal Arts

audio link

In this lesson, we embark on an enlightening journey into the realm of the Seven Liberal Arts. This topic, rooted deep in classical antiquity, is not only a cornerstone of historical education but is also of profound relevance to contemporary life and learning.

The Seven Liberal Arts are a group of disciplines that have been esteemed for over two thousand years. Originating in ancient Greece, these arts were considered essential for free men, fostering an education that encompassed humanities, mathematics, and science. In contrast, women of that era were often instructed in more physical pursuits like dancing, singing, and playing musical instruments, which were thought to complement the logical and scientific learnings of men.

During the Middle Ages, this foundational education was formally categorized into what we now refer to as the Seven Liberal Arts: Grammar, Logic, Rhetoric, Arithmetic, Geometry, Astronomy, and Music. To make these disciplines easier to recall, mnemonic devices were created, one of which goes: “Lingua, tropus, ratio, numerus, tonus, angulus, astra.” Translated, this means: “Grammar talks, Dialectic teaches truth, Rhetoric colours words, Music sings, Arithmetic numbers, Geometry weighs, Astronomy tends the stars.”

The liberal arts extend beyond just vocational or technical training; they represent a holistic educational approach. Even today, many educational institutions offer a Liberal Arts Education that spans sciences, arts, and humanities. This method aims at developing well-rounded individuals proficient in critical thinking, philosophical inquiry, and artistic expression.

The significance of the number ‘seven’ in this context stems from its philosophical and historical roots. It echoes the ancient Greek idea of φιλοσοφία (philosophia), meaning “love of wisdom,” and is reflected in medieval thought, such as St. Albert the Great’s interpretation of the “seven pillars” of wisdom mentioned in Proverbs.

The term ‘liberal’ here is derived from the Latin word ‘liber,’ meaning ‘free.’ Historically, this type of education was intended for free men, implying an education that liberated the mind. As for ‘arts,’ contrary to our contemporary association with creativity alone, it originally referred to any skill or craft which required practice and learning.

Through this series of discussions on the Seven Liberal Arts, we will not only delve into their historical significance but also discover their practical applications in modern life. Whether you are studying philosophy, literature, science, or the arts, an understanding of these disciplines provides a rich foundation for intellectual and personal growth.

Activities

Seven Liberal Arts

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