A Saving Science: Capturing the Heavens in Carolingian Manuscripts by Eric M. Ramírez-Weaver
Judith Collard
Reviewed by: A Saving Science: Capturing the Heavens in Carolingian Manuscripts by Eric M. Ramírez-Weaver Judith Collard Ramírez-Weaver, M., Manuscripts, University Park, Pennsylvania State Press, 2017; hardback; pp. 312; 35 colour, 75 b/w illustrations; R.R.P. US $89.95; ISBN 9780271071268. In has focused his study on a deluxe copy of Handbook 809 produced for ninth-century Bishop Drogo Metz, one Charlemagne's sons. This was several versions this important text and offers comparative that also highlights text's significance daily celebration liturgy as it provides necessary charts information used at time dating. The large astronomical encyclopedia took form compilation computistical material collected seven books. It derived from synod 809. included Frankish prelates who were interested questions computus, subject great interest throughout Middle Ages, manuscript prepared youthful prelate about 820. now resides Madrid Biblioteca Nacional de España, MS 3307. At least four artists Metz involved its illustration. brought together an array texts including Bede's De natura rerum made up Book vii collection. As well, presented interpretation astronomy, built such works Isidore Seville's Etymologies other teachings. had been guided Adalhard Corbie their books to advance pedagogy encourage robust intellectual brand spiritual renewal through studying liberal art astronomy. miniatures found within crucial both agenda make meaningful contents. They highlight link between art, religion science. use illustrations diagrams representations particular constellations familiar historians publications Equally is Aratus Leiden (Bibliotheek der Rijksuniversiteit, Voss. lat. Q79) 816, close parallels how recorded preserved forms older classical tradition. These manuscripts demonstrate importance astronomy period. ongoing question earliest explored connection science work philosophical late Gothic Bohemian manuscripts. He does across two parts consisting chapters total. discussions reveals very thorough grasp German historiography, particular, which fortunate, medieval diagrammatic have [End Page 249] received most substantial attention scholars. His some clearest writing computus English, topic eludes many writers, myself, despite presence tables concurrentes appearing Ages. useful account first chapter along with discussion legacy writings led development handbook. looks manuscript's subsequent history. Chapter 2 history celestial iconography relates Drogo's manuscript, while 3 evidence support idea itinerant teams spread ideas styles different regions. final covers matters image debate, following Iconoclasm crisis Byzantium, ways Carolingians conceived benefits awaited those grappled compilations. Studying seen pathway salvation and, title suggests, perceived 'a saving science'. written difficult occasionally gets lost elaborate, sometimes obscure language. the...
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