The Quadrivium | Ep.2
The liberal arts are traditionally divided into two categories: the Trivium and the Quadrivium. Often times the Quadrivium are passed over as less essential than the Trivium. However, the Quadrivium are quite essential to a fully rounded classical education. The four Quadrivium arts are Arithmetic, Geometry, Harmonia or Music, and Cosmology or Astronomy. While the Trivium are considered the language arts, the Quadrivium are the mathematical arts, and they explore the order of creation using a study of number.
Arithmetic looks at the relationship of numbers to each other. Numbers are not isolated things, but are built off of each other. Three is not an idea by itself, but rather a composition of “oneness” and “twoness.” Numbers also exist in proportion to each other. Often times we loose sight of the fullness of this concept because we focus too much on the practical use of numbers. While math is practical, it is so much more. Number sequences such as the Fibonacci sequence are woven all throughout the fabric of creation, and an understanding of ordered number opens the door to understand much greater things.
Geometry naturally proceeds from numeric relations. It examines numeric ratios in space as shapes relate to other shapes. Geometry also introduces the idea of the continuous. Lines do not have an end, and in studying them we move from finite counting numbers into a new continuous realm.
In Harmonia one sees the numeric ratio put into sound. These relationships may be seen vertically in stacked harmony and horizontally in a linear melody. As a shaper of the soul, ordered music can also help cultivate a well ordered (or well “tuned”) individual. Through Harmonia one studies not simply music but harmony and order itself.
Cosmology, or Astronomy, looks at relationship through a study of the heavens. It demonstrates the working out of mathematical ratio through motion. Planets are move through the sky in relation to each other, and one planet’s motion effects the others’. We see God in them not only because they are beautiful and God is too, but because their intricate order shows the mind of our creator who placed them in motion.
Ultimately, the Quadrivium are a study of number, but these four arts show number in different ways. Greg Wilbur says, “Those four [arts] are entry ways, or entry points, of looking at something from different perspectives.” The Quadrivium open our eyes to the majesty and wisdom of our creator.
If you are interested in learning more, listen to the whole episode on:
Comments
Post a Comment