art – Page 4 – Creative Kids

Socrates, Ancient Athenian Philosophy and Wisdom. Philosophy Classes for Children.

Dear reader,

I bring you more Socrates materials for our learning as parents and, soon, tools (including a free Lesson Plan) to introduce this master of questioning to our children.

Below, you will find 2 of my poems about Socrates, which can be used as materials for reading and comprehension, links to philosophy classes, a free class link (using it will be though because they have too many good choices, take your time to find your favorite class), and links for Socrates study.

Poetry is great for the Socratic Method, actually.

Plato: student of Socrates, teacher of Aristotle, who was the teacher of Alexander the Great: some of the most famous names in history and wisdom.

To be able to home educate or homeschool, we must educate ourselves first. Also, by learning, we inspire our children to do the same.

Socrates, a poem.

Socrates in the Shadows

In the quiet halls where shadows lie,
A thinker walks ‘neath a boundless sky,
His breath a whisper in ancient wind,
A voice of reason, fierce and thin.

He stands where darkness cloaks the land,
A world enslaved by iron hand,
The political woes, a heavy yoke,
Yet in his heart, no fear awoke.

“Do you not see?” he calls with grace,
“The chains that bind, the darkened space,
Are but illusions, thin and frail,
For wisdom’s light shall never pale.”

With valor bold, he questions all,
The gods above, the shadows’ call,
He seeks the truth where others flee,
In courage fierce, his mind roams free.

He strides through doubts and silent fears,
His voice a beacon through the years,
He asks of us: “What makes us wise?
Is it in gold or in the skies?”

“No,” he says, “it’s in the soul,
In questioning the tyrant’s role,
In seeking truth where shadows play,
In daring to defy the fray.”

For in the face of cruel despair,
When tyrants’ lies fill up the air,
It’s in the quest for wisdom’s grace,
That we reclaim our rightful place.

“Rise above the darkened gloom,”
He whispers in the dim-lit room,
“Embrace the light, the questions bold,
And let your wisdom break the mold.”

In every mind, his spirit sows,
A seed of courage, wisdom grows,
In questioning, we find the key,
To break the chains and set us free.

So heed the call of Socrates,
In every shadow, find the peace,
For in the search for truths untold,
We find the courage to be bold.

Sources for further study: free, online: I’ll offer additional sources soon.

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Socrates

https://www.britannica.com/biography/Socrates

https://www.history.com/topics/ancient-greece/socrates

Socrates

Stay tuned for more coming on this topic, including the free Lesson Plan for our children.

If this helped or inspired you, let me know so I can do more like this. I loved it, but I’ll share more if you like it, too.

If you have questions about Outschool tutoring, let me know in the comments

Note: This was a quick poem that I will most definitely edit when I complete the final Lesson Plan on this subject (the whole package I’m preparing which will take me some time, because I don’t want to rush it.

With the intention to inspire learning, thinking, and questioning,

Eve

Socrates: Ancient Greek Philosopher. The Wisest Man Ever Born?

Dear reader,

Let us talk about Socrates, the ancient Athenian philosopher.

First, I’ll include an essay for adults, and coming soon, I’m going to share a free lesson plan for home education parents, just in case you’re looking for educational materials. If you’re a homeschooling parent, and this was helpful, let me know, I’ll be sure to create more like this.

The soon to come lesson plan will be completely free, as my gift to parents. I will continue to develop this lesson plan for use with my kids. I’ll then go about creating materials for my future lesson plan, one that will be complete. This will take a lot of time, but I’ll share a lot of sources for your studies if you’re interested in introducing your children to Ancient Philosophy. Stay tuned.

The free Lesson will include

A lesson plan to introduce kids to Ancient Philosophy and Socrates
The lesson will be tailored for children 8 -12 ( my oldest learners)
Several simple poems for reading and comprehension materials

Socrates. Valor and Fearlessness

Socrates said in his famous trial (the result of which was the Athenians killing him) that the god Apollo had prophesied that there was no wiser man than him.

Socrates went on to inspire wisdom in a level that has not been matched. His student Plato would go on to be the father of philosophy, and Plato’s student, Aristotle (Alexander the Great’s famous teacher), was the father of universities, per this course I listed below.

Source:

Listen to Famous Greeks by J. Rufus Fears, The Great Courses on Audible.

https://www.audible.com/pd/B00D8G01VG?source_code=ASSOR150021921000R

Socrates

Ancient Athenian
Known for questioning everyone
“No honest man can survive in your democracy. It is so corrupt!” Were hos words to his Athenian oppressors proving his valor and fearlessness
Murdered by the Athenians for inpiety

Socrates: The Paragon of Virtue and Philosophy

Socrates, one of the most influential figures in Western philosophy, lived in ancient Athens during the 5th century BCE. His contributions to philosophy, characterized by his commitment to virtue and his fearless stance against the political establishment, have left a lasting legacy.

Legacy and Ideas

Socrates is renowned for his contributions to ethics and epistemology. Unlike his predecessors, who often engaged in speculative and metaphysical inquiry, Socrates focused on practical ethics and the nature of human virtue. His philosophy was grounded in the belief that understanding the nature of virtue was essential for leading a good life. This approach is most famously encapsulated in his assertion that “the unexamined life is not worth living.”

Central to Socratic thought is the Socratic Method, a form of dialectical questioning that aims to stimulate critical thinking and expose contradictions. Through this method, Socrates sought to challenge assumptions and encourage deeper understanding. This approach involves asking a series of questions to help individuals arrive at their own conclusions, rather than providing them with answers. The goal is to foster clarity of thought and promote self-awareness.

Socrates also introduced the concept of “Socratic irony,” where he professed ignorance to draw out the knowledge of others. This tactic allowed him to reveal the ignorance of those who claimed to possess knowledge, thus promoting a deeper exploration of truth.

Valor and Fearlessness

Socrates’ valor and fearlessness are perhaps most evident in his interactions with Athenian politicians and his eventual trial. Socrates lived during a time of significant political turmoil in Athens. His commitment to questioning the status quo and challenging the moral and intellectual complacency of the time often put him at odds with powerful figures.

One of Socrates’ most notable acts of courage was his refusal to abandon his principles, even in the face of severe consequences. During the Peloponnesian War, Athens was under the influence of a series of politically charged events and shifts in power. Socrates remained steadfast in his commitment to questioning the moral and ethical conduct of the politicians and leaders, despite growing hostility.

Socrates’ fearlessness culminated in his trial and subsequent execution. In 399 BCE, Socrates was charged with impiety and corrupting the youth of Athens. He was sentenced to death by drinking poison hemlock. Despite the gravity of his situation, Socrates faced his fate with remarkable composure, continuing to question and discuss philosophical issues up until his final moments. His willingness to accept death rather than compromise his beliefs is seen as a testament to his commitment to truth and virtue.

Conclusion

Socrates’ legacy endures through his profound impact on philosophy and his embodiment of intellectual courage. His method of questioning, dedication to virtue, and resistance to political pressure have inspired countless individuals to seek truth and live a life of moral integrity. Socrates’ life and teachings continue to be a beacon for those who value wisdom, ethical rigor, and the courage to stand up for one’s beliefs. His unwavering pursuit of truth in the face of adversity exemplifies the highest ideals of philosophical inquiry and personal virtue.

If this was inspiring or helpful, let me know, I would love to do more like this.

Stay tuned for an upcoming free lesson plan to introduce children to Socrates and Athenian philosophy,

Eve

Poemas de José Martí. Lo más bello escrito por el hombre

Queries lector, Hoy te presento mi poesía favorita, la poesía de José Martí el poeta Cubano (1953 – 1995). Yo soy Cubana, Martí es un ídolo para mi y mi primera influencia poética (gracias a mi papá, un maestro de Español cubano) Cultivo una rosa blancaEn Julio como en eneroPara el amigo sinceroQue me da […]
Poemas de José Martí. Lo más bello escrito por el hombre

If you are searching for reading materials in Spanish that are beautiful and deep, look no further than the poetry of José Martí.

In my Spanish blog, I just shared one of his best poems with a translation for your understanding and study.

Poetry is great for language study because you don’t have to understand every word to get the message.

With love,

Eve

History of Poetry (1). The Origins – Exploring Oral Tradition and Mythology

Dear reader,

Are you a poetry lover or an educator who uses poetry?

I am studying the history of poetry. Thank you for embarking on this journey with me.

“The Ancient Stream” the beginning of the poetry collaboration on Twitter/ X.

In my home education journey, I am still working to get my children more involved with poetry. My oldest agreed to take a class about poetry. She also studied Shakespeare.

Previously, when we tried online school, I helped my two oldest kids write poems for classes. My oldest kid won second place in a poetry competition. They have created their own poems after watching me write many poems of my own.

Previous to attempting to teach my kids the history of poetry, I have to learn more about it myself.

As I researched this topic to create something solid, I learned so much that I didn’t know about the power of poetry, and I’m excited to share.

Eventually, I’ll collect all this information together into an ebook – presentation for my kids to study when they’re ready.

This material is advanced, not for kids. This could be useful to teenagers, young adults, poets, writers, and teachers/ homeschool parents.

Why I study poetry

I see poetry as the king of language.

I study poetry more than for its beauty. I can’t even express why. All I can say is that poetry is in my DNA. I feel certain word combinations deeply. Poetry that resonates with me has the potential to be more than inspirational. It can be life changing.

Studying poetry and its rich history and tradition offers numerous gifts, including:

1. **Cultural Insight**: Poetry provides a window into the values, beliefs, and societal norms of different cultures throughout history.

2. **Language Mastery**: Analyzing poetry enhances language skills, including vocabulary, syntax, and figurative language comprehension.

3. **Emotional Expression**: Poetry explores complex human emotions and experiences in ways that prose often cannot, fostering empathy and emotional intelligence.

4. **Historical Context**: Poems reflect historical events, movements, and perspectives, offering unique insights into the past.

5. **Aesthetic Appreciation**: Studying poetry develops an appreciation for the beauty of language, imagery, rhythm, and sound.

6. **Critical Thinking**: Analyzing poetry sharpens critical thinking skills by requiring interpretation, evaluation of themes, and exploration of multiple meanings.

7. **Creativity and Imagination**: Writing and studying poetry encourage creative expression and imaginative thinking.

8. **Personal Growth**: Engaging with poetry promotes self-reflection, mindfulness, and personal growth through introspection and exploration of universal themes.

9. **Literary Tradition**: Understanding the history of poetry connects us to a rich literary tradition spanning millennia, influencing modern literature and culture.

10. **Cross-Cultural Connections**: Poetry transcends borders and languages, facilitating cross-cultural understanding and appreciation.

11. **Psychological Insight**: Poetic expression often delves into the depths of human psychology, offering insights into the human condition and psyche.

12. **Spiritual and Philosophical Exploration**: Many poems explore existential questions, spiritual beliefs, and philosophical inquiries, inviting contemplation and dialogue.

Studying poetry thus enriches our understanding of language, culture, history, and ourselves, making it a valuable pursuit across educational, personal, and professional realms.

**Introduction: Unraveling the Mysteries of Poetry**

Poetry, as an art form, transcends time and culture, serving as a medium of expression, storytelling, and cultural preservation. Delving into its origins leads us into the realms of ancient oral traditions and mythology.

**Section 1: Origins in Oral Tradition**

Poetry emerges from the dawn of human language, intertwining with oral traditions passed down through generations. Before the advent of written language, early societies relied on oral poetry to convey history, myths, rituals, and moral lessons. These poetic narratives were crafted with rhythmic patterns and mnemonic devices, aiding in their memorization and transmission across cultures.

Scholars believe that the origins of poetry are deeply entwined with the development of language itself, evolving from primitive chants and incantations into structured forms that encapsulated the essence of human experience. While the exact beginnings remain obscured by the mists of prehistory, archaeological evidence and comparative linguistic studies offer glimpses into the ancient roots of poetic expression.

**Section 2: Poetry and Mythology**

In the era of early civilizations, poetry and mythology were intricately woven together. Mythological narratives often found their voice in poetic forms, serving as a means to explain natural phenomena, celebrate heroes, and uphold societal values. Examples abound across ancient cultures, from the epic hymns of Sumerian mythology to the lyrical odes of Greek legends.

These mythopoetic traditions not only preserved cultural identity but also provided a medium for exploring existential questions and the mysteries of the human condition. Through poetry, ancient peoples forged connections with their ancestors, gods, and the cosmos, creating narratives that resonated through time and space.

**Conclusion: Poetry as a Gateway to Human History**

The origins of poetry, rooted in oral tradition and mythology, underscore its fundamental role in shaping human consciousness and cultural evolution. While the precise moment of its inception eludes us, poetry’s enduring legacy as a conduit of expression and cultural memory remains indisputable.

As we embark on a journey through the annals of poetic history, we unravel not only the mysteries of our past but also rediscover the timeless power of language and creativity. Poetry, in its myriad forms and voices, continues to inspire, provoke, and illuminate the human experience, inviting us to explore the depths of our collective heritage.

Excerpt from “The Ancient Stream” an ongoing poetry collaboration on Twitter/ X.

Homer. The Illiad and the Odyssey

Homer, believed to be the author of the epic poems “The Iliad” and “The Odyssey,” composed these works during a time when writing was not yet prevalent in ancient Greece. Instead, these monumental epics were passed down orally, generation after generation, through skilled storytellers. Historians don’t know much about Homer.

This oral tradition not only preserved the narratives of heroic deeds and mythological tales but probably also added layers of improvisation and embellishment with each retelling.

There was potential for alterations and adaptations over time, as oral transmission is inherently susceptible to changes influenced by cultural shifts and the storyteller’s interpretative lens. Despite these challenges, Homer’s epics endure as masterpieces of ancient literature, showcasing the power of oral tradition in preserving and transmitting cultural heritage.

I wonder what these epics were like when they were transmitted orally.

In modern times, we know all about The Illiad and The Odyssey. We have read translations, watched movies, and documentaries about it. What we can appreciate is the language it was written in, the ancient Greek form of poetry, which largely differed from modern poetry. I don’t think it’s possible to recreate that kind of poetry in English.

Sources for our continued study

Here are some sources and references that we can use for further study on the origins of poetry and its connections to mythology:

1. **Books:**
   – *The Power of Myth* by Joseph Campbell and Bill Moyers – Explores the role of mythology in human culture and storytelling.
   – *The Poetics* by Aristotle – Classical work on the principles of poetry and drama.
   – *The Epic of Gilgamesh* – An ancient Mesopotamian epic poem, one of the earliest known literary works.
   – *The Odyssey* and *The Iliad* by Homer – Classic examples of epic poetry from ancient Greece.

2. **Articles and Academic Papers:**
   – JSTOR is a database that provides access to various scholarly articles on ancient poetry and mythology.

https://www.jstor.org/

The archaeology of language https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/antiquity/article/abs/archaeology-of-language-originsa-review/4B053CBE2C6D633D3345CE8EE157BB78#

3. **Websites and Online Resources:**
– Ancient History Encyclopedia – Provides articles and resources on ancient civilizations and their literary traditions.

https://www.ancient.eu/

– Theoi Greek Mythology (https://www.theoi.com/) – A comprehensive resource on Greek mythology, including myths often conveyed through poetry.
– Internet Sacred Text Archive (https://www.sacred-texts.com/) – Offers a collection of texts from ancient and modern religions, including poetic works and mythological narratives.

These sources provide a solid starting point for readers interested in exploring the origins of poetry and its connections to mythology in greater depth. They cover a range of perspectives from academic studies to literary classics, ensuring a well-rounded approach to understanding this foundational aspect of human culture.

Links

Oral traditions and the internet https://g.co/kgs/AZLWcho

Thank you very much for engaging with supporting poetry. Poetry can help support you as well.

I will bring you more poetry history, which will surely impress serious students of this art-craft.

With love,

Eve

Exploring Poetry as a Tool for Language Learning

Dear reader,

I am currently reading poetry in Latin for my humble Latin learning practice. Let’s discuss why poetry is a fun and effective way to acquire a new language.

This applies to students who already have some knowledge of the new language. If you are starting to read in your target language, this tip applies to you.

Medium Level Spanish poem: The poet feels deeply where others refuse to feel. The poet is not afraid of love, even though he/ she is conscious that it might one day turn off.

Poetry, with its intricate use of language, offers a unique avenue for learners to delve deeper into a new language. Far from the straightforward prose typically encountered in language textbooks, poetry presents learners with a challenge that extends beyond mere grammar and vocabulary. It demands an understanding of cultural nuances, literary devices, and a keen ear for rhythm and cadence.

Yet poetry, with its whimsical beauty, can be the catalyst for a deeper understanding of a new language. I read the same poem for over a week hundreds of times in Latin, and I then translated it. Yes, it took a week, but that’s nothing compared to never understanding that gorgeous piece of literature.

Complexity of Poetry

At its core, poetry is a linguistic art form that pushes the boundaries of language. Its condensed and often metaphorical nature forces readers to interpret meaning beyond literal words. This complexity serves as both a hurdle and an opportunity for language learners. By grappling with poetic verses, learners are exposed to varied sentence structures, idiomatic expressions, and figurative language that are essential for fluency.

Stepping Out of the Comfort Zone

Engaging with poetry requires readers to step out of their linguistic comfort zones even if the poetry we’re reading is in our first language. Unlike everyday language, poetry uses heightened language, symbolism, and imagery, challenging learners to think critically and creatively. This exposure not only enriches vocabulary but also enhances comprehension skills by encouraging deeper analysis of context and subtext.

Linguistic and Literary Growth

Studying poetry aids language learning by fostering a deeper appreciation for the nuances of grammar and syntax. Poetic forms such as sonnets, haikus, and ballads adhere to specific structures, exposing learners to formal conventions while encouraging experimentation with language. Moreover, the rhythmic patterns inherent in poetry improve pronunciation and cadence, aiding in the development of natural speech patterns in the target language.

And dare I say that the repetition in poetry could assist I memory because like that ancient Roman smart guy said

Repetition is the mother of learning.

Another cool thing about poetry is that you can read a poem 5000 times if you love it.

Cultural Insight and Empathy

Poetry serves as a window into the cultural and historical contexts of a language. By exploring poems from different periods and regions, learners gain insight into societal norms, values, and perspectives. This cultural immersion not only enhances language proficiency but also cultivates empathy and cross-cultural understanding.

Practice Makes Proficient

Practicing poetry reading or, better yet, writing in a new language further solidifies linguistic skills. Crafting poems forces learners to apply grammar rules, expand vocabulary, and experiment with stylistic devices. This active engagement promotes language retention and fluency by reinforcing learned concepts in a creative and memorable manner.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while poetry may initially seem daunting to language learners, its inherent challenges and rewards make it a powerful tool for linguistic and literary growth. By embracing the complexity of poetic expression, learners not only enhance their language proficiency but also deepen their understanding of cultural contexts and human experience. Thus, integrating poetry into language learning curriculum enriches the educational experience, fostering a lifelong appreciation for language and literature.

Are you learning a language?

Are you already reading poetry in your target language?

If you’re learning Spanish, I have a multitude of poems for your reading pleasure and language peactice.

Please let me know if you’re searching for Spanish reading texts.

With love,

Eve

Homeschooling log: 4/14/24

The Geometry of a Heart – Symmetry

Grid Art.

What we learned is that the “perfect heart” is a symmetrical heart, and we practiced drawing symmetrical hearts.

But, we also love asymmetrical hearts.

Poetry Journal: The calligraphy

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Poetry Journal: The calligraphy

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New Poetry and the wisdom at Divine Love Union Journal

Dear reader,

To read and download my poetry, follow my poetry collection through this link:

I have been blogging about very interesting topics on my Divine Love Union Journal blog, and for those posts, I have written these unique pieces of art. I pray you will enjoy them, and I’d be honored if these were inspiring. I will link my new coolest blog posts below.