Karl Wilhelm Friedrich Schlegel: 'Form your life humanly, and you have done enough: but you will never reach the height of art and the depth of science without something divine.'

Form your life humanly, and you have done enough: but you will never reach the height of art and the depth of science without something divine.

In his insightful words, Karl Wilhelm Friedrich Schlegel captures the essence of what it means to live a fulfilling and purposeful life. He suggests that by simply shaping our lives in a way that is inherently human, we have achieved an admirable and worthy goal. However, Schlegel emphasizes that true greatness lies in the pursuit of art and science, which inevitably requires a touch of the divine.At first glance, it may seem contradictory that Schlegel suggests that forming our lives in a human manner is sufficient, while simultaneously promoting the importance of embracing the divine. Yet, upon closer examination, we uncover an intriguing philosophical concept that invites us to contemplate the relationship between humanity, art, science, and the divine.To form our lives humanly is to live in accordance with our nature, embracing our inherent values, emotions, and desires. It is to cultivate meaningful connections with those around us, to strive for personal growth, and to contribute positively to society. In essence, Schlegel reminds us that we should seek to be the best versions of ourselves and live an authentic and fulfilling life.But what then does he mean by suggesting that the pursuit of art and science requires something divine? In this context, the term "divine" does not necessarily pertain to religious dogma or belief. Instead, it alludes to a deeper, beyond-human aspect that transcends the everyday realm. It implies tapping into the realms of creativity, inspiration, and higher knowledge.Art, in all its forms, allows us to transcend the ordinary and express our deepest thoughts and emotions. It is through the artist's connection to this divine source that masterpieces are created, stirring our souls and evoking profound emotions. Science, on the other hand, seeks to delve into the mysteries of the universe, uncovering the underlying principles and laws that govern our existence. It requires a relentless pursuit of knowledge and an unwavering curiosity to understand the intricacies of the cosmos.The connection to the divine is a unifying thread that binds these seemingly disparate realms together. It guides the artist's brush, the scientist's experiments, and the philosopher's contemplation. By acknowledging this connection, we recognize that true greatness in art and science lies not only in technical proficiency but also in the ability to transcend our human limitations and touch upon something more significant.It is in our aspirations to reach the height of art and the depth of science that this concept becomes more apparent. The divine element infuses our endeavors with a sense of awe and wonder, pushing us to explore uncharted territories and discover new frontiers. It serves as a reminder that there is always more to be unveiled, more to be understood, and more to be created.In summary, Schlegel's quote encapsulates the notion that a fulfilling and purposeful life can be found by shaping our existence in a human manner. However, to truly reach the pinnacle of art and the depths of science, we must also embrace something divine. The connection to this divine aspect fuels our creative pursuits and fuels our thirst for knowledge, leading us to extraordinary achievements. By acknowledging and nurturing this transcendent force, we open ourselves up to endless possibilities, expanding the boundaries of human achievement and understanding. So, as we venture forth in our individual journeys, let us strive to strike a harmonious balance between our human nature and the boundless realms of the divine.