The Forms of Latin Mathematical and Scientific Expressions from the Earliest Times until A.D.1200

FAIN: RZ-51238-10

Wesley M Stevens
University of Manitoba (Manitoba, Canada)

Preparation for publication of a Latin mathematical and scientific lexicon from Antiquity to the Middle Ages. (24 months)

Expressions of mathematical and scientific assumptions, concepts, and activities were important for Latin culture, not only in technical literature but also in common communications. This study of Latin vocabulary will discuss over 2200 forms and phrases which are known in early Latin writings, tables, and diagrammes from the Roman Republic through the Early Middle Ages until A.D.1200. It should contribute to a better understanding of that culture in the classical and medieval periods. That would impact upon humanistic studies of the literature and history of early Europe in which maths and sciences were more active than usually supposed.

Associated Products

Ars computi quomodo inventa est (Article)
Title: Ars computi quomodo inventa est
Author: Wesley M. Stevens
Abstract: Lexica Latina has led to discovery of ninth century texts about the early medieval attempts to create a calendar and to correct the mistakes of other attempts.
Year: 2010
Primary URL Description: Osterreichische Akademie der Wissenschaften, Philosophisch-historische Klasse (Wien)
Access Model: Book to purchase
Format: Other
Publisher: OAW Denkschriften, 405. Band, Forschungen zur Geschichte des Mittelalters, Band 18, p.29 - 65

SCOTOMA LEXICOGRAPHICA Omission of Mathematical and Scientific Latin Terms (Article)
Title: SCOTOMA LEXICOGRAPHICA Omission of Mathematical and Scientific Latin Terms
Author: Wesley M. Stevens
Abstract: There have been not only omissions but also overt errors by Latin lexicographers in their definitions of terms which had been well known and actively used by both classical and early medieval writers to express their mathematical and scientific concepts and activities – an accumulation of modern errors which has obstructed the understanding of many Latin texts. Illustrations.
Year: 2013
Primary URL Description: Discovery and Distinction in the Early Middle Ages, essay 7
Access Model: Book to purchase.
Format: Other
Publisher: Western Michigan University, Medieval Institute Publications

---