Aesthetic Thursday: Encountering St. Firmin, the Ultimate Multitasker from the 4th Century, at the Metropolitan Museum of Art

Embark on a historical journey with a visit to the Metropolitan Museum of Art, home to a striking 13th-century French limestone sculpture of St. Firmin, the fourth-century multitasker. Explore the mesmerizing world of medieval art and uncover the enigmatic saint's intriguing tale of unwavering faith, becoming a bishop, and his peculiar post-decapitation joy. 

I am at the Metropolitan Museum of Art today, and I embark on a captivating journey through time as we explore the mesmerizing world of medieval art at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Our focus lies on an intriguing 13th-century French limestone sculpture of none other than St. Firmin, a high-achieving multitasker hailing from the fourth-century (i.e., a Roman Catholic Saint with a penchant for carrying his decapitated head).

Encountering St. Firmin, the ultimate multitasker from the 4th century, at the #MetropolitanMuseumOfArt today. 🎨🏛️ Staring at this 13th-century French wooden sculpture, it's clear this #Saint wasn't your average holy man! 😇🙏 Quickly ascending the celestial corporate ladder, he claimed the coveted position of Bishop at #Amiens.

But here's the quirky part — he's joyfully holding his head! Yes, you read that right. A case of post-decapitation bliss, perhaps? 😂🤔 Nevertheless, he seems quite content. Go, hun!

A day well spent appreciating #ArtHistory and uncovering some divine oddities. Truly, there's nothing like a #SaintStory to keep things interesting! 💫📖

As we stand before this masterful creation, we can't help but wonder about the life and accomplishments of this enigmatic saint. St. Firmn's journey was one of immense determination and unwavering faith. Climbing the celestial corporate ladder, he eventually earned the esteemed position of bishop at Amiens, France – a feat that undoubtedly demanded great dedication and virtue.

Yet, what truly captivates us is the portrayal of St. Firmin holding his head in his hands, an expression of joy illuminating his features. His happiness and contentment in this sculpture are palpable, leaving us with the question: What was the source of his boundless joy?

Saint Firmin

Indeed Saint Firmin is a real person and is said to have been beheaded in Amiens, France; his feast day is celebrated on September 25th. However, historical records do not confirm the exact year of his death. It's believed to have occurred during the early 4th century, possibly around 303 C.E. Miracles attributed to the discovery and translation of his relics during the time of Bishop Savin are part of the saint's hagiography.

Steeped in history, medieval art provides a rich tapestry of stories that often speak to the human experience. St. Firmn's sculpture is no exception. The depiction of a saint holding his head symbolizes his unwavering devotion to the church, even amidst the trials and challenges he faced. Also, Saint Firmin is a martyr, which means he gave up his life for his belief and devotion to Christ. In this way, martyrs are often depicted in the same way they were killed — in this example, by cutting off the poor saint's head. To illustrate that for the Christian — death is not the end, but a beginning — he carries his head as a defiance against the ravages of sin and death. And how are you doing?

Seeing such a treasure trove of medieval pieces at the Metropolitan Museum of Art is also cool. The museum serves as a befitting venue for our encounter with St. Firmn. Its halls house an extensive collection of art that transcends time, mimicking the architecture of a Gothic cathedral, allowing us to connect with our past and embrace the beauty of diverse cultures and histories.

So, next time you find yourself at the Met, take a moment to visit this 13th-century French limestone sculpture and meet the remarkable St. Firmn. Witness his joy and dedication, and let it be a reminder that happiness lies in pursuing our passions and fulfilling our purpose in life. Keep your head on properly.

In conclusion, a visit to the Metropolitan Museum of Art can be more than just an exploration of history – it can also be an introspective journey, connecting us with the triumphs and struggles of those who came before us. Let St. Firmn's story inspire us as we continue our paths, aiming to find joy and fulfillment in our endeavors, just as he did in the fourth century.

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Deciphering the Language of Manipulation: From Billboards to Broadcasts

Percy writes about perception and reality in his 1961 novel The Moviegoer.

In this post, I explore the captivating world of language manipulation and marketing tactics by making my own thought experiment called "Walker Percy's Hamburger."

Would you like a yummy hamburger?

Metaphorical Journey into Authenticity

Picture this: You're cruising down a highway, and suddenly, an image of a perfect, glistening hamburger on a billboard catches your eye. This isn't just any burger; it's an artistic masterpiece that sends your taste buds into a frenzy. It's got glistening lettuce peeking out of the bun, a crispy patty, oozing mayo, and an immaculate spherical bun. This image is so compelling that you find yourself making an unplanned pit stop at the advertised restaurant. However, the reality that awaits you, sadly, is far from the tantalizing image promised. This dichotomy between representation and reality is a phenomenon that American novelist Walker Percy masterfully encapsulated. It also presents a fascinating lens through which we can explore the influence and manipulation of language, especially within the realm of our capitalist consumption.

Walker Percy's Hamburger

Walker Percy's illustration of the mouth-watering burger, which ends in disappointment, serves as a perfect metaphor for how language and marketing tactics can manipulate our expectations. These linguistic structures have a unique way of extending our experiences by luring us with attractive phrases, glamorous pictures, and strategically crafted narratives. One could even say that these structures are filled with what some have coined as "non-content fillables". They don't necessarily provide new information or factual content, yet they prove irresistible. Terms like "popular", "famous", or "most visited" are quintessential examples of these fillables. They aren't verifiable facts or insightful opinions, but they command attention and evoke intrigue, often without any accountability from the advertiser.

This practice extends beyond the fast-food industry and permeates our social world, shaping our perceptions and our consumption patterns. One might argue that these manipulative language structures hinder our ability to experience reality authentically or that they foster distrust. Yet, I propose a different perspective: This phenomenon could also serve as a tool to sharpen our critical thinking. It encourages us to dissect and investigate what's presented to us, essentially turning us into detectives of authenticity in an era of manufactured realities.

Exploring Choices and Consequences: A Review of Lionel Shriver's 'The Post-Birthday World'

Do you know what happens when you go and organize your computer’s unorganized files — a book review you forgot to publish in 2012. But I really do love Lionel Shriver — so here’s to her fantastic novel — The Post-Birthday World.

Lionel Shriver’s novel, ‘The Post-Birthday World’, introduces readers to the life of Irina McGovern, a children’s book author, and illustrator residing in London. An expatriate from America, Irina lives with her intelligent and considerate husband, Lawrence Trainer, who is employed at a prominent think tank. The novel portrays Irina’s seemingly blissful existence with Lawrence and delves into two intriguing yet diverging narratives.

Irina remains steadfastly committed to her marriage in one narrative, while the other embarks on a path filled with illicit romance with Ramsey Acton, a celebrated snooker player. The novel's structure is ingeniously designed, oscillating between two parallel plotlines after the first chapter. Shriver ingeniously uses this technique to depict the duality of choices and their subsequent consequences, a feat that adds a captivating layer to the narrative.

A key incident serves as the catalyst for this dual narrative structure. During an annual dinner with Jude, Irina’s friend, and Ramsey’s former wife, an opportunity presents itself as a possible kiss with Ramsey. What transpires afterward is determined by two possible reactions - either she succumbs to the temptation while her husband Lawrence is away, or she resists it. The narrative splits here, henceforth offering two separate chapters for each version of the events.

Clip Art: Three Grecian Heads

Explore 'Three Grecian Heads', a historic 1814 illustration showcasing ancient costumes, featuring the swift-footed warrior, Achilles.

"Three Grecian Heads"

Three Grecian heads. The figure in the middle is "Swift-footed Achilles," the famed Achaean warrior told about in the stories of Homer.

Source note: — An illustration of the Egyptian, Grecian, and Roman costume: in forty outlines with descriptions. London. 1814. Baxter, Thomas, 1782-1821 (Engraver). This image is in the public domain. Retrieved from The Miriam and Ira D. Wallach Division of Art, Prints and Photographs: Art & Architecture Collection, The New York Public Library. New York Public Library Digital Collections. Uploaded by Stones of Erasmus.

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Revitalizing High School Reading Programs: Diversifying Book Selections for Engaged Learning

Read and write for pleasure.

For the past three years, I’ve had the honor of leading the summer reading program at my school. This experience has provided valuable insights into creating engaging and educational reading experiences for teenagers during the summer. Additionally, I’ve developed reading programs for winter breaks and fostered independent reading to expose my students to a wide variety of books.

My journey began with the recognition that all texts, whether from textbooks or prescribed curricula, have their own historical and cultural significance. While I enjoy teaching classics like “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” “Romeo and Juliet,” “The Pearl” by John Steinbeck, or “The Great Gatsby,” I’ve discovered that a wealth of rich, layered texts can open students’ eyes to different perspectives.

For instance, this year I taught “Upstate” by Kalisha Buckhanon, a contemporary author. The novel explores the lives of a young couple in Harlem, with the male protagonist being wrongfully accused and imprisoned. The narrative unfolds through their exchanged letters over several years. My students found this an enlightening experience, leading to discussions on love, personal transformation, and social issues.

Moreover, I’ve been inspired by the work of Gholdy Muhammad, who emphasizes the need for literature to represent diverse identities and intellects. Such texts can challenge ingrained beliefs or ask probing questions. An example is Octavia E. Butler’s “Kindred,” a novel I taught this year. To my delight, one of my students informed me that a TV series based on the book has aired on HBO, demonstrating its contemporary relevance.

Through these experiences, I’ve learned about the historical context of high school reading lists and explored strategies, tips, and theories to expand literacy. I’m excited to bring this knowledge and experience into the 2023-2024 academic year.

Let me know what books you love to read with adolescent learners, either for pleasure, as an anchor or mentor text, or for independent reading.

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Kronos (Chronus) Dethroned: Otherwise Known as Saturn Retold in an Engaging 3-Day Lesson from Stones of Erasmus

@cafedumonde "I use my Granny voice and tell the story of Cronus and how he was dethroned by Zeus, thus beginning the Titanomachy." #GreekMythology #Cronus #Zeus #Titanomachy #Storytelling #ancientlegends ♬ Moonlight Sonata - Beethoven - Classical Piano - Instrumental Classical Music - Classical Playlist - Sleeping Music - Music For Relaxation - Classical Piano & Classical Music & Classical

In the intricate tapestry of Greek mythology, few figures stand as tall as Kronos, or Saturn, the eminent ruler of the Titans. The child of Gaia, the earth, and Uranus, the sky, Kronos epitomizes a generation of divine entities that have forever etched their stories in our cultural psyche. Commonly recognized as the God of Time, a title possibly introduced later by Greek writers like Hesiod, Kronos' tale commences at the heart of the cosmos, quite literally birthed from the earth and sky.

Rhea tricks Kronos

A pivotal figure, Kronos ascended to power in a manner that was anything but ordinary. In a bold move of patricide, he seized power from Uranus, his father, through a gruesome act of castration. Ouch. This gruesome act had far-reaching consequences. In a twist of mythological irony, the remains of Uranus's severed genitals mingled with the sea and gave birth to Aphrodite, the Goddess of Love. And that's what love's got to do with it — a tale that powerfully demonstrates the interconnectedness of love and strife.

Kronos' union with Rhea, one of the Titanides, was steeped in tumult and apprehension. Haunted by the specter of his brutal ascension, Kronos was convinced that his children would repeat his actions. Driven by fear and paranoia, he devoured each newborn — Hestia, Demeter, Hera, Hades, and Poseidon. However, Rhea, weary of her husband's horrifying dietary habits, hatched a plan to save their last child, Zeus.

In an act of maternal bravery, Rhea tricked Kronos by giving him a stone cloaked in infant's clothes instead of her newborn. Meanwhile, Zeus was spirited away to the island of Crete, where nymphs tenderly cared for him until he came of age. As an adult, Zeus infiltrated Kronos' court, cunningly earning the Titan King's trust as his cupbearer. When the time was ripe, Zeus served Kronos a potent concoction that caused the Titan to regurgitate his swallowed children. This act marked the beginning of Zeus' retribution, leading to a decade-long war and, ultimately, the retrieval of his rightful Olympian throne.

Indeed, Kronos' narrative is a compelling tapestry of cosmic power plays, familial betrayal, cunning stratagems, and ultimate redemption. Through its rich, engaging tales, Greek mythology continues to captivate, offering timeless lessons on life, power, and destiny.

Kronos: 3-Day Lesson

Looking to impart a riveting 3-day lesson to your middle or high school students in English Language Arts or Humanities? We've got you covered. Head over to the Stones of Erasmus TpT store and grab a copy today. Enhance your teaching experience effortlessly.

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Admiring Saint Catherine of Alexandria: A 16th Century Italian Sculpture at the Metropolitan Museum of Art

Join me on a journey through time, appreciating a 16th-century Italian sculpture of the Christian martyr, Catherine of Alexandria, on display at the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

In the heart of New York City lies a treasure trove of artistic marvels — the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Today, my admiration was captured by an exquisite 16th-century Italian sculpture depicting Catherine of Alexandria, a revered Christian martyr from the third century.

Saint Catherine of Alexandria,
Cristoforo Solari, Italian, ca. 1514-24

The saint stands regal, and she has on her side the instrument of her martyrdom — a wheel in which she was tied to and tortured. But — wait, look at her feet — it is the head of the emperor. So — even in death, Christianity wins — for she has defeated paganism. What?!

The detailed portrayal of Saint Catherine evokes her timeless courage and spiritual strength. Originally from Egypt, Catherine's legacy extends beyond geographical and temporal boundaries, continuing to inspire individuals across centuries.

Each stroke, each detailed carving in this Italian masterpiece, resonates with the passion of an artist, reverently capturing the essence of the saint. It is a tangible connection to a time gone by, a bridge between the present and the past.

As I stood there, taking in the silent beauty of this sculpture, I couldn't help but wonder about the varied art forms that touch our hearts. What is your favorite work of art? In its many manifestations, art connects us, narrates past stories, and provokes introspection. Let's continue this journey of art appreciation together, exploring and rediscovering the relics of history.

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