Skip to main content

Da Vinci's Vitruvian Man of math - James Earle

2,461,615 Views

10,115 Questions Answered

TEDEd Animation

Let’s Begin…

What's so special about Leonardo da Vinci's Vitruvian Man? With arms outstretched, the man fills the irreconcilable spaces of a circle and a square -- symbolizing the Renaissance-era belief in the mutable nature of humankind. James Earle explains the geometric, religious and philosophical significance of this deceptively simple drawing.

Where do you think mankind fits on the Great Chain of Being?

Sign in to answer question

About TED-Ed Animations

TED-Ed Animations feature the words and ideas of educators brought to life by professional animators. Are you an educator or animator interested in creating a TED-Ed Animation? Nominate yourself here »

Meet The Creators

More from The Artist's Palette