Meteorology, Weather Forecasting and the Early Medieval Renaissance of Astronomy
Anne Lawrence-Mathers
This chapter begins with an account of the roles Charlemagne and Alcuin in supporting study computus astronomy Carolingian Empire. It then offers outline expanded astronomical meteorological information found ‘encyclopedias’ computus. A key problem for users these collections was lack accurate observations calculations, which enforced continuing dependence on lists short-term ‘signs’ coming weather, mostly derived from Pliny. One attempt to improve range knowledge available took form beautifully illuminated versions Aratus’ long poem, volumes known as Aratea. The dissemination this body is traced through analyses surviving manuscripts, demonstrate resources being devoted subject across mainland Europe. Separate consideration given Anglo-Saxon England, where Viking conquests wars had caused serious disruption, teaching Abbo Fleury, his pupil Byrhtferth, crucial. argues that possession superior highly vaued by rulers both secular spiritual spheres.
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