Welcome, traveller,
From microscopic spaces,
Where molecules with fierce desires,
Shiver in hot embraces.
The atoms clash, the spectra flash,
Projected on the screen,
The double D, magnesian b,
And Thallium's living green.
— James Clerk Maxwell
My quest is to find ultimate knowledge of the essential sciences. To that end I read the writings of the great scientists of history, whom no one reads anymore. Knowledge is a tool which a virtuous mind can use to improve the conditions of his life and others' lives. Importantly, learning directly from the great Teachers also vivifies Wisdom in the learner, which is practical knowledge for all of life. The mind is capable of unknown heights of knowledge, so it is a teleological fulfillment to sharpen the mind to its greatest extent; this is done by understanding the principles behind things and is the opposite of rote memorzation, which is a practice for animals.
What's more, only by having a deep and complete knowledge of a thing can art be made of that thing. If I want my engineering to be art, not merely functional, then I must be able to draw out characteristics of my prima materia which are not obvious to lay people.