Michelangelo: The Pieta

This week we are learning about one of the great artists of the Renaissance, Michelangelo. We are studying his sculpture and his painting, and we're thinking about the connections between his art and the Christian faith.

The students had a lively discussion about whether the Pieta, Michelangelo's powerful sculpture of Mary and Jesus, should be displayed in an art gallery or in a cathedral. 

Here's a sampling of their perspectives:

Jack: The Pieta should be kept in a cathedral. If it was stored in an art gallery, everyone would admire its beauty but they might not focus on the religious story behind it. In a cathedral everyone would admire its beauty and the story behind it.

Wyatt F.: The Pieta should be kept in an art gallery, because then it could be seen by more people, not just Christians. Also, the sculpture might attract more people to learn about Christianity.

Sawyer and Shep: A cathedral. First, it was requested by church leaders to be made for the church, therefore it should stay in the church. Second, it can turn the cathedral into more of a destination for art lovers.

Annabelle: The Pieta is an important part of history, and showing it to the public would honor the artist for the amazing creation. If a person is not Christian and doesn't want to go into a church, but still wants to see the sculpture, then displaying it in a museum will make it more accessible to everyone. 

Jay: The Pieta should be kept in a cathedral, because Michelangelo wanted it to be there. 

Gabe: Putting the Pieta in an art gallery means more people will be able to see it. 

Hero: Placing this sculpture in an art gallery would not show off its glory as well as if it were placed in a cathedral. Since people go to a cathedral to worship Jesus, the statue should be kept in a place where they can see how much he suffered.