The Heavenly Writing: Divination, Horoscopy, and Astronomy in Mesopotamian Culture

ISBN-13: 9780521716611 / Angielski / Miękka / 2007 / 360 str.

Francesca Rochberg

Opis

Celestial phenomena in ancient Mesopotamia was observed and interpreted as signs from the gods as well as physical phenomena. Relating the various ways the heavens were contemplated and understood, this study traces the emergence of personal astrology from the tradition of celestial divination and how astronomical methodology developed for horoscopes. Its importance lies in its treatment of Babylonian celestial sciences (celestial divination, horoscopy, and astronomy) as subjects relevant to the history of science and culture.

Recenzje

'This is a fascinating read with much to offer and challenge, an erudite and skilful exploration and justification of Assyrian and Babylonian expertise and influence in this area. … I enjoyed this immensely … It is a truly exciting book, with true passion and secure appreciation and knowledge of this intriguing subject.' The London Association of Classical Teachers Newsletter

Spis treści

1. The historiography of Mesopotamian science; 2. Celestial divination in context; 3. Mesopotamian genethlialogy: the Babylonian horoscopes; 4. Sources for horoscopes in Babylonian astronomical texts; 5. Sources for horoscopes in the early astrological tradition; 6. The scribes and scholars of Mesopotamian celestial science; 7. The classification of Mesopotamian celestial inquiry as science.