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Grace and the Parthenon Marbles

The Greeks lost their marbles, and the British could kindly return them. Bad arguments why the British must return them do not gainsay the fact that they may. Such magnanimity, moreover, would put into practice one of most unexpected innovations in human history: St. Paul’s understanding of grace.
The enduring values in which conservatives believe—beauty among them—are more multifaceted and surprising than we sometimes give them credit for. Beauty does not always follow rules, and it is often found in unexpected places and patterns.
Augustine, Aquinas, and Alexandria offer forgotten ideals regarding what learning is and the scale at which it flourishes.
The ancient tradition of pursuing knowledge for its own sake is slowly, quietly making a comeback.
An exhibition by contemporary artist Enrique Martínez Celaya at the Cathedral of St. John the Divine (on view through November 23rd) is a unique chance to contrast the uncertainty of our own age with the New Medievalism of the great American architect, Ralph Adams Cram.
Can Thomistic art theory provide an alternative to postmodern “Neutralism”?
A recent series by James Matthew Wilson highlights the connection between conservatism and beauty.
Is it possible for capitalism and democracy to support localist and communitarian ideals? According to one interpretation of a high-tech, agrarian-loving blockbuster film, the answer is yes. And this points to a challenge for conservative purists of all stripes.
Can the divide between the Liberal Arts and the Sciences be bridged by beauty?
If conservatives wish to defend culture, they must support the arts. Their support for the arts, however, should be motivated by a love of beauty rather than any political program.
The urgency of protecting the sanctity of life, the dignity of the human person, and the institution of marriage goes hand-in-hand with cultivation of the arts