Classical Learning and the Progress of Virtue: Giants in the History of Education

John Milton: Classical Learning and the Progress of Virtue (Giants in the History of Education)

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Classical education has a rich and storied history, stretching back to the ancient Greeks and Romans. It is a tradition that has shaped the minds of some of the greatest thinkers, leaders, and artists in Western civilization.

In this book, we will explore the history of classical education and its impact on the progress of virtue. We will meet some of the giants of classical education, such as Socrates, Plato, Aristotle, Augustine, Thomas Aquinas, and Dorothy Sayers.

These giants of education shared a common belief in the importance of classical learning for the development of virtue. They believed that the study of the great works of literature, history, and philosophy could help students to develop the intellectual, moral, and spiritual qualities necessary for a virtuous life.

This book will provide you with a deeper understanding of classical education and its transformative power. You will learn about the history of classical education, its methods, and its goals. You will also meet some of the giants of classical education and learn from their wisdom.

If you are interested in learning more about classical education, then this book is for you. It is a valuable resource for anyone who wants to understand the history, methods, and goals of classical education.

The History of Classical Education

Classical education has its roots in the ancient Greek and Roman cultures. The Greeks believed that the study of the great works of literature, history, and philosophy could help students to develop the intellectual and moral qualities necessary for a virtuous life.

The Romans adopted the Greek model of education and adapted it to their own needs. Roman education focused on the development of practical skills, such as rhetoric, grammar, and law.

Classical education continued to be the dominant form of education in Europe throughout the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. During this time, the study of the classics was seen as essential for a well-rounded education.

In the 19th century, classical education began to decline in popularity. This was due in part to the rise of new educational methods, such as the progressive education movement.

However, classical education has never completely disappeared. There are still many schools and colleges that offer a classical education. These schools believe that classical learning is essential for the development of virtue and intellectual excellence.

The Methods of Classical Education

Classical education is based on the idea that students should learn by reading and discussing the great works of literature, history, and philosophy.

The classical curriculum is divided into three stages:

• The grammar stage (grades 1-4): In this stage, students focus on learning the basics of reading, writing, and arithmetic. They also begin to study the classics, such as Aesop's fables and the Iliad.
• The logic stage (grades 5-8): In this stage, students learn to think critically and to express their ideas clearly. They also continue to study the classics, including works by Plato, Aristotle, and Cicero.
• The rhetoric stage (grades 9-12): In this stage, students learn to write and speak effectively. They also continue to study the classics, including works by Shakespeare, Milton, and Burke.

Classical education is a rigorous and challenging curriculum. However, it is also a rewarding experience. Students who receive a classical education develop a deep understanding of the great works of literature, history, and philosophy. They also learn to think critically, to express their ideas clearly, and to live virtuous lives.

The Goals of Classical Education

The goals of classical education are to:

• Develop intellectual excellence
• Foster moral development
• Cultivate spiritual growth

Classical education seeks to develop intellectual excellence by teaching students to think critically, to solve problems, and to express their ideas clearly.

Classical education also seeks to foster moral development by teaching students about the virtues and by providing them with opportunities to practice virtue.

Finally, classical education seeks to cultivate spiritual growth by teaching students about the nature of God and the human soul.

Classical education is a holistic approach to education that seeks to develop the whole person. It is an education that is based on the belief that all human beings are created with dignity and that they have the potential to achieve great things.

The Giants of Classical Education

Throughout history, there have been many giants of classical education. These men and women have dedicated their lives to teaching the classics and to promoting the ideals of classical education.

Some of the most famous giants of classical education include:

• Socrates (469-399 BC): Socrates was an Athenian philosopher who is considered one of the founders of Western philosophy. He believed that the unexamined life is not worth living and that the pursuit of wisdom is the highest good.
• Plato (427-347 BC): Plato was a student of Socrates and one of the most influential philosophers in history. He founded the Academy in Athens, which was a center of learning for centuries.
• Aristotle (384-322 BC): Aristotle was a student of Plato and one of the greatest philosophers in history. He wrote on a wide range of topics, including logic, physics, metaphysics, ethics, and politics.
• Augustine of Hippo (354-430 AD): Augustine was a Christian theologian and philosopher who is considered one of the most important figures in the history of Christianity. He wrote extensively on theology, philosophy, and education.
• Thomas Aquinas (1225-1274): Thomas Aquinas was a Dominican friar and philosopher who is considered one of the greatest philosophers in the history of Christianity. He wrote extensively on theology, philosophy, and education.
• Dorothy Sayers (1893-1957): Dorothy Sayers was an English writer, theologian, and educator. She is best known for her mystery novels featuring Lord Peter Wimsey, but she also wrote extensively on theology, education, and the role of women in society.

These are just a few of the many giants of classical education. These men and women have made a significant contribution to the history of education and to the development of Western civilization.

Classical education is a powerful force for good. It has the power to transform lives and to make the world a better place.

I encourage you to learn more about classical education and to consider giving your child a classical education. It is an investment that will pay off for a lifetime.

John Milton: Classical Learning and the Progress of Virtue (Giants in the History of Education)

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3418 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	93 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE