Original scientific paper

THE ROLE OF ASTROLOGY IN COLUMBUS’ DISCOVERY OF THE NEW WORLD

Ivana Skuhala Karasman ; Institute of Philosophy, Zagreb

Abstract

In this article I show how astrology, i.e. the theory of conjunction, motivated Colmubus to set sail in his first voyage 1492. Columbus became familiar with the theory of conjunction and with eschatology via the Tractatus de legibus et secretis contra superstitiosos astronomos by Pierre d’Ailly. On the basis of this text Columbus started believing in the eminent end of the world and his own role in fulfilment of several prophecies in connection with the coming of the Antichrist. Columbus was also influenced by another Pierre d’Ailly’s work: Imago mundi, a compendium of the ancient and medieval geography and cosmology.

Keywords

astrology; Christopher Columbus; theory of conjunction; Pierre d’Ailly

Hrčak ID:

68494

URI

https://hrcak.srce.hr/68494

Publication date:

18.5.2011.

Article data in other languages: croatian

Visits: 2.124 *