Among the Greeks, beauty ranked next to virtue, and an eminent author
has said that "the nearer we approach Divinity, the more we reflect His
eternal beauty." The perfect expression of thought requires the physical
accompaniments of language, gesture, etc. The human form is pliable,
and, with proper culture, can be made replete with expression, grace and
beauty. The cultivation of the intellectual powers has been allowed to
supplant physical training to a great extent. The results are abnormally
developed brains, delicate forms, sensitive nerves and shortened lives.
That the physical and mental systems should be collaterally developed,
is a fact generally overlooked by educators. The fullness of a great
intellect is generally impaired when united with a weak and frail body.
We have sought perfection in animals and plants. To the former we have
given all the degree of strength and grace requisite to their peculiar
duties; to the latter we have imparted all the delicate tints and
shadings that fancy could picture. We have studied the laws of their
existence, until we are familiar with every phase of their production;
yet it remains for man to learn those laws of his own being, by a
knowledge of which he may promote and preserve the beauty of the human
form, and thus render it, indeed, an image of its Maker. When the body
is tenanted by a cultivated intellect, the result is a unity which is
unique, commanding the respect of humanity, and insuring a successful
life to the possessor. Students are as a rule pale and emaciated. Mental
application is generally the cause assigned when, in reality, it is the
result of insufficient exercise, impure air, and dietetic errors. An
intelligent journalist has remarked that "many of our ministers weigh
too little in the pulpit, because they weigh too little on the scales."
The Greek Gymnasium and Olympian Games were the sure foundations of that
education from which arose that subtle philosophy, poetry, and military
skill which have won the admiration of nineteen centuries. The laurel
crown of the Olympian victor was far more precious to the Grecian youth