The liberal arts have been around since ancient times and are still relevant today. From the Trivium to the Quadrivium, these seven traditional branches of study continue to shape our understanding and knowledge of the world. This article will explore how the 7 Liberal Arts relate to the Trivium and Quadrivium, two educational systems developed by ancient Greeks and Romans.
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The 7 Liberal Arts in Classical Education
In classical education, the quadrivium is the second part of the seven liberal arts, which are considered to be the foundation of a liberal education.
The first part of the liberal arts is the trivium, which includes the:
Let’s discuss this more below.
The Trivium and the 7 Liberal Arts
The Trivium is the first three stages of the seven liberal arts, while the Quadrivium comes later (usually after a student has graduated high school or the rhetoric stage).
Grammar stage
This stage is when students are introduced to the basic building blocks of language and communication, such as phonics, vocabulary, and grammar.
It is focused on the acquisition of knowledge.
Logic stage
In this stage, students learn to think critically and analyze information.
They learn how to ask questions, make arguments, and evaluate evidence. The focus is on the development of reasoning skills.
Rhetoric stage
In this stage, students learn how to communicate effectively, both in writing and verbally.
They learn how to organize their thoughts and express themselves clearly and persuasively.
The focus is on the ability to communicate knowledge.
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The Quadrivium and The 7 Liberal Arts
The Quadrivium is the latter part of the 7 liberal arts and is usually studied in later years or in college.
Arithmetic
This is the study of numbers and their properties, including operations such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.
Geometry
This is the study of shapes, sizes, and positions of figures.
It covers concepts such as points, lines, angles, and polygons.
Music
This is the study of sound, pitch, rhythm, melody, and harmony.
It explores the mathematical principles that underlie music and the relationship between music and the other arts.
Astronomy
This is the study of the universe, its structure, origins, and motions of celestial objects, including stars, planets, and galaxies.
Quadrivium is Advanced
The Quadrivium is often considered the more advanced or abstract part of the liberal arts, and it builds on the knowledge and skills acquired during the Trivium.
The Trivium and Quadrivium together are considered to make up the seven liberal arts that were considered essential for a well-rounded education in the Middle Ages.
7 Best Classical Homeschool Curriculum Programs
If you’re interested in implementing the classical homeschooling method, there’s no need to start from scratch and create your own curriculum. Fortunately, there are several reputable classical Christian education options available that can provide a solid foundation for your homeschool. Let’s take a look at some of these curriculum options:
- Veritas Press – great if you want more of an online program – book a free consultation with them here.
- Memoria Press – great if you prefer a mailable program
- Compass Classroom – an extremely affordable classical program with a hint of Charlotte Mason
- Classical Conversations – includes a homeschooling co-op focus
- Classical Academic Press – customize your curriculum with this one
- A Well-Trained Mind
- Tapestry of Grace – Unit Studies approach to a Christian curriculum
Before making a decision, it’s helpful to research and review these options in more detail.
There are websites where you can find comprehensive reviews of these curriculum choices to assist you in selecting the one that aligns with your educational goals and preferences.
Remember, each curriculum has its unique features, so take the time to evaluate them based on your homeschooling needs and the learning style of your child.
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Conclusion on the 7 Liberal Arts
The seven liberal arts are a cornerstone of the Western educational system. They provide a basis for developing the critical thinking and analytical skills necessary to perform higher-level tasks. The seven liberal arts are divided into the Trivium and Quadrivium, with each group focusing on different aspects of knowledge acquisition. Together, these two groups of disciplines provide an invaluable set of tools that can be used to explore any subject in an intellectually rigorous way.
