John James Audubon

In the context of American history, John J. Audubon made a wonderful contribution with his compilation of The Birds of America. Therefore, Audubon: The Man Who Painted Birds course includes learning about that contribution of his, and more. The Story of John J. Audubon encapsulates his history and some mystery surrounding his identity and is a part of this course of study.

To study John J. Audubon is to study the natural history of early America. Without his tireless work, we may not have a record of the beautiful birds and their surrounding. His is a record of realistic bird paintings for all individuals who are a part of America’s history.

The Audubon: The Man Who Painted Birds self-paced, online course is a delightful way for Christian homeschooling families to experience Biblical Classical Education through a unit study approach.

This Biblical Classical Literate study is designed with multiple ages in mind. Families may enjoy the story as it is read aloud by either parent or by Heather Hall. Plus, students of various ages are able to participate in the art lessons regardless of their individual skill levels. For example, younger students may like to use the outline for a coloring page. And older students may enjoy painting with water colors as they follow the instructional art videos. The notebook is an essential tool because it is a product of the student’s personal education (the student is a producer vs. a consumer).

Dangerous Times in History

The French Revolution is the historical backdrop for Audubon’s youth and years as a young adult. The standard of France changed over time as she went back and forth between tyranny of a monarchy and liberty. While France was sorting out her future, John James was sent to America for safety.

The history and geography parts of the course:

• are taught with context
• addresses the cause to effect
• the individuality of France

These aspects help students comprehend the Big Picture as well as particular aspects of history and geography. This is important for the student to have a more well-rounded education and understanding of history.

Providential History in Audubon’s Life

It’s unclear whether or not John James Audubon was a Christian. Some sources say he was of the Catholic faith, other sources say he was a Transcendentalist. Whether he was a believer or not, God still moved among nations and used Audubon.

In the Audubon: The Man Who Painted Birds course, students learn how to think about the following kinds of questions:

• “What is providence and how do we see it in Audubon’s life?”
• “How is God’s Providential hand seen in Haiti’s history?”
• “How America’s Constitution influenced Liberty in other nations?”
• “In what ways does the French Revolution compare and contrast with America’s Revolution?”
• “What are the stories and principles taught by France’s and America’s standards?”
• “Why was his contribution important to America?”

Learning how to think in these ways as we study literature, history, the Bible can help us identify God’s Providence in our lives and in our nation.

Teaching Character Through The Story of John James Audubon

Teaching character is one of the beautiful aspects of Biblical Classical Education. In part, this is done by asking the following kinds of questions:

• “How did Audubon’s upbringing shape him?”
• “What are his internal and external qualities?”
• “What areas in my life do I need to surrender to God?”
• “What contributions can I make in God’s story to advance the Gospel and Liberty?”
• “How can I share the True, Good, and Beautiful in the Biblical context?”
• “What is the cause to effect of choices and actions that he made?”

These kinds of questions help teachable students consider life with a sober-minded approach.

Painting in the Style of Audubon

Audubon’s individuality as an artist is highlighted in this Biblical Classical Community self-paced, online course. Therefore, the main principle is God’s Principle of Individuality.

Students learn about how he diligently pursued developing skills and his particular painting style. Additionally, they learn what his creative process looked like.

With the art portion of this course, students learn:

• how to analyze his paintings
• step-by-step instruction
• water color techniques
• how to paint a simplified version (optional)
• how to paint a detailed version (optional)

Students are able to produce art at their current individual skill levels. The art lessons give students the ability to re-watch and practice techniques as frequently as their parents will allow.

In Summary

John James Audubon gave significant contributions to America and we can learn much about God’s hand in history as we learn about his life. Audubon: The Man Who Painted Birds is a self-paced, online course with one price for immediate family members in a single household. Homeschool groups or private Christian schools may contact Biblical Classical Community for group licensing options.