| The liberal arts made up the core curriculum in Medieval schools. The study of the arts served as a preparation to the study of theology. Because of their importance in schools, such as the School of Chartres, the arts are depicted in stained glass and in sculpture at that cathedral. The study of the liberal arts was challenged by the Scholastics, or Aristotelians. Platonists of the Gothic period defended the liberal arts. Their study continued into the Renaissance, though not always as a preparation for theology but for the service of the state. The depiction of the liberal arts also continued into the Renaissance.;A survey is given, from Greece to the Renaissance, to provide background to the artwork. The artwork, then, is interpreted in light of that background. From the sculptures at Chartres to Holbein's Ambassadors, the artwork reflects a particular philosophy of a given time and place. |
