Final answer:
Quintilian believed in being well-educated in various topics, aspiring to merge knowledge with virtues like truth and beauty. His educational philosophy emphasized a broad foundation across languages, literature, philosophy, and arts to prepare elite Roman citizens for success in civil and social endeavors.
Step-by-step explanation:
True, Quintilian believed in the importance of being well-versed in a variety of topics. Quintilian’s vision of education was oriented toward not just specialized knowledge but also toward the development of virtues and the capacity to understand and express the essential qualities of truth, beauty, and goodness. This broad educational foundation was considered crucial for an elite Roman citizen, as evidenced by the emphasis on language skills, rhetoric, and the ability to perform successfully in various social and public spheres.
In his teachings, Quintilian underscored the value of an education that includes disciplines such as languages, literature, philosophy, and arts. This idea was aligned with the general educational goals of the time, which sought to prepare individuals to participate effectively in civic life and to ensure their success in diverse fields including history, religion, fine arts, and business.