According to exaggerated realism, what do all beautiful things represent?

The concept of exaggerated realism posits that beautiful things symbolize different physical manifestations of ethereal forms. This idea suggests that beauty in the physical world reflects deeper, more abstract truths or ideals that exist beyond mere physical representations. In essence, beauty serves as a bridge between the tangible and the intangible, allowing us to perceive these ethereal forms through their physical manifestations. This aligns with philosophical perspectives that regard beauty as a glimpse into a higher reality or an ideal form.

While the other options present interesting notions, they do not align as closely with the principles of exaggerated realism. For example, the notion of imperfect metaphysical connections focuses more on the inadequacies in representing deeper truths, rather than celebrating the manifestations of beauty itself. Unique ideas devoid of universals suggest a more fragmented understanding of beauty, where common ideals do not play a role. Temporary illusions of the mind emphasize the transient nature of perception, which diverges from the idea of beauty as a stable representation of deeper truths. Therefore, the correct choice highlights the philosophical connection between beauty and abstract forms that transcends ordinary physical existence.