Embrace the Muses: The Arts in the Olympics

The modern Olympics, initiated by Pierre de Coubertin in 1896, not only revived ancient sports but also aimed to incorporate cultural elements. Initially focused on sports such as swimming and weightlifting, it evolved when Coubertin proposed integrating arts categories like architecture, literature, music, painting, and sculpture in 1906. This expansion reflected a vision of a holistic celebration of human achievement, combining physical and artistic talents through a 'pantathlon of the muses.' Coubertin emphasized that just as athletes competed as amateurs, artists should do the same, highlighting the interconnectedness of sport and culture in the Olympic spirit.