Why the Centaur?
I consider the Centaur Chiron to be the quintessential symbol of the ascent from "the horse to the rational." It symbolizes the human potential to rise on the human scale while keeping intact the powers bestowed by "Mother Nature."
The Centaur Chiron is the symbol of "uperthon." He is the pedagogue of the heroes of the Argonautic expedition and the campaign in Troy. He is the teacher of the pedagogical "of the Bow and the Lyre," of harmonious development. According to tradition, the Centaur Chiron became the liberator of Prometheus from his martyrdom, offering his immortality as a sacrifice for his release.
Finally, the Centaur Chiron is the favorite symbol of Ioannis Kapodistrias. The most valuable gift to the great benefactors of the Philmousos Society, which he founded in Vienna in 1814. Certainly, the choice was not accidental.
The revival of this highest significance symbol, from oblivion to living Memory, is served by placing it on the cover of my Exercises. A symbol of universal practice and universal revival.
