Greek Dichotomysian Art

Webster dictionary defines dichotomy as, “A difference between two opposite things; a division into two opposite groups” (Miriam Webster). The “Greek Dichotomy,” therefore, relates to the division between mythology and philosophy, two seemingly opposing ideas both captures in the concept of art. These two sides are sometimes considered the Dionysians and the Apollonians of art. Dionysians represent the mythological and “free” side. They seem more creative and imaginative in comparison to the Apollonians who strive to accommodate perfect structure and accuracy to their art. In the Bible God’s enormous vaults of creativity and art in creating the world alone represents a definition of the beauty and meaning which art must stand for. One can
However, there are many instances in the Bible that show a very “unacceptable” kind of art. For instance, in Exodus, as Moses trudged down Mount Sinai holding two heavy stones bearing the orders of God, commonly known as the “ten commandments”, he gazed upon the work of God’s people standing at the mount’s foot. Melted gold was formed into a calf, which the Gods people, the Israelites, bowed down to worship, pray to and praise. This would be an example of art the Bible does not accept as beautiful and worthy. Was it, in fact art? Well, Yes. The golden calf had meaning, but according to the bible, exemplified the wrong meaning. The Bible seems to clearly imply that all art for the Glory of God is good, and honorable. Psalms is one of the most widely known form of poetry, beautiful poetry, that spends it words praising the Lord the author, David, loved. Psalm 19:1 describes Gods work through his words, “For the heavens declare the Glory of God, and the skies proclaim his handiwork” (ESV). David writes of his love, of his transgressions and he pleas for forgiveness through pure words of art. There are so many instances of art throughout the Bible, both good forms and wrong forms. These instances give Christians a guideline of what to create in their lives: art which resembles the beauty of God, and
Art has been influenced tremendously by past ideals. There are still today many instances of Greek architecture, in our world, and Greek literature is both referenced as well as required to be read in high schools and universities across the United States. As art changes and develops through the years, much like fashion, it bounces back to old ideals and creates some new ones along the way. One thing that has always stayed the same about art is that it’s creation is always for some kind of meaning. A Christian could have a great impact on the world through their art. For instance, as observed throughout, Greek dichotomy influenced seemingly every part of our world, so could Christians not create the same effect through their art and ideals? If every piece of art has meaning, and people continue to ask what that meaning is, lives could be changed through whatever kind of art is placed in the