Pseudo-Aristotle: De Mundo (On the Cosmos): A Commentary

De mundo is a philosophical letter to Alexander the Great, written by Aristotle's student but unknown author. It offers a unique view of the cosmos, God, and their relationship, using twelve interlocking analogies to build a complex picture of the universe. The work influenced late antiquity, the Renaissance, and the Early Modern period.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 257 pages
Publication date: 10 March 2022
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

De mundo, traditionally attributed to Aristotle, is a profound exploration of philosophy in the form of a letter addressed to Alexander the Great. This remarkable work offers a unique perspective on the universe, God, and their intricate relationship, drawing inspiration from Aristotle's ideas yet penned by a subsequent author. The author begins by providing an overview of cosmology, geography, and meteorology, ultimately arguing that a comprehensive understanding of the cosmos cannot be attained without a profound comprehension of God as its ultimate source. To achieve this, the author presents a series of twelve carefully crafted interlocking analogies, skillfully building a intricate and captivating mental image in the reader's mind. Throughout the work, the author adheres to an Aristotelian framework, portraying God and the cosmos in a manner that pays homage to pre-Aristotelian philosophers while avoiding direct criticism of rival philosophical schools. De mundo exerted a significant influence in late antiquity, and its impact continued to resonate throughout the Renaissance and Early Modern periods.

Weight: 372g
Dimension: 152 x 227 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781108819855
Edition number: New ed