The essence of studia humanitatis is akin to that of the Renaissance in general. The beginning of studies in the humane arts was in many ways a new birth of education, thinking and social structure, but it was also a rebirth of the lost enlightenment of antiquity. The idea was to educate from classical works, which were much lost in the Dark Ages, but also to educate in a way never before seen or attempted. The combination of physical and mental pursuits created an individual who "develops those highest gifts of body and of mind" (Woodward, Vittorino de Feltre, pg. 102 - Rice, Grafton, pg.105)
The general curriculum of liberal studies (liberal as they were worthy of a free man) were rooted in history, ethics, and literature
The idea that a new form of education made " a human being more fully and perfectly a man" (Rice, Grafton, pg. 107) was a major step in the evolution of human's quest for knowledge and betterment. The liberal education remains to be a well-rounded curriculum with which to build a foundation for growth in many directions. From art and architecture to formal studies of history and literature to physical education and athletics, liberal studies gave and continue to give students an outlook that lets them achieve more diverse and individual goals.
The liberal education became a necessary instrument for all, not just the elite. Where the beginning of the humanities didn't deal directly with common society, the mass appeal was soon to come. The merchant class b
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