An Introductory Course of Modern Gymnastic Exercises (extract)

GYMNASTICS. 7 reminded the beholder of the ideal creation of antique sculpture.* The individual, conscious of his strength, resources, and firmness, walked with a more independent tread and cheerful fearless disposition. The Greeks, at the period to which their oldest his­ tory goes back, seem to have been but little advanced beyond the stage ofrefinement which we havejust been contemplating. Following their annals from the first obscure glimpses of tradition, down to the time when, on the loss of national independence, their spirit died within them, we find athletic exercises forming a pro­ minent feature of the education of the young, and the pastime of those of mature years. At first they were equally rude and inartificial with those of the Indian tribes we have alluded to ; but, in progress of time, areas and buildings were allotted for their practice, masters appointed, and prizes awarded to the greatest proficients, which were contended for in the presence of assembled nations with all the solemnity and in­ spiring pomp of a religious celebration. The exercises of the Greek athletae,—the hurling of the discus,—the running, wrestling, and melange of boxing and wrestling,—the equitation and chariot-driv­ ing,—are known to every classical scholar. At first they were instituted with a view to hardening and strengthening the frames of the citizens, that they might the better be able to fight the battles of their country. By degrees, however, the natural vanity of being able to do any one thing better than one's neigh- * West exclaimed, on seeing the Apollo Belvidere for the first time,—" AMohawk, by G-d!"