Description
Book SynopsisWorks of early Irish authors include a strong biblical component, but indicate that independent thought is accepted.Scarcity of scientific data, a real interest in the physical world, and the need to validate the scriptures encouraged seventh-century Irish scholars toward critical reflection on scientific matters. Their world-view was based onmaterials drawn from the Bible, on earlier Christian works and on personal reflection and contemplation. This volume looks at the Irish contribution to the development of western thought in the early middle ages. MARINA SMYTHis librarian of the Medieval Institute at the University of Notre Dame, and teaches early medieval cultural history.
Trade ReviewShould be in the library of anyone engaged in the study of early Irish civilization, early medieval Western cultural history, late antiquity, or the history of science. CAMBRIAN MEDIEVAL AND CELTIC STUDIES Excellent study...an important and well-written book about the simple but sensible cosmology of early Irish scholars. * AMERICAN HISTORICAL REVIEW *
Table of ContentsCreation - conclusions; the elements - conclusions; the heaven of heavens - conclusions; the supercelestial waters - conclusions; the firmament - general considerations on the shape and structure of the sky, conclusions, the heavenly bodies - the stars and constellations, the planets, the great luminaries, conclusions, appendix 1 - the star of Bethlehem and astrology, appendix 2 - the animation of the luminaries; the fiery space; the two layers of air - the upper layer, the lower layer, conclusions, meteorological phenomena, conclusions; the sea - the nature of water - sweet or salt?, conclusions, the great abyss, tides, the tides and the moon, conclusions, appendix - sea-weed ashes and salt water; the earth - paradise, the shape of the earth, divisions of the inhabited world, geographical data, are there inhabitants under the earth?, general considerations, conclusions; hell and the purgatorial fire; overview.
