Shakespeare's Knowledge of Astronomy and the Birth of Modern Cosmology

This book examines how Shakespeare's plays reflect the intellectual upheavals of his time, particularly in light of astronomy. It argues that Shakespeare's celestial knowledge is far beyond what was commonly known at the time and offers a new interpretation of his works.

Format: Hardback
Length: 186 pages
Publication date: 30 November 2021
Publisher: Peter Lang Publishing Inc

In a novel interpretation of Shakespeare's plays, this book explores an observation made decades ago: that Shakespeare seems to overlook the profound intellectual transformations brought about by astronomy during his lifetime. The author employs a hermeneutic-dialectic methodology to examine temporal, situational, and verbal anomalies in Hamlet and other plays, uncovering a consistent pattern of interpretation that aligns with the history of astronomy and the development of modern cosmology. Furthermore, the author demonstrates how Shakespeare incorporates beliefs about the nature of the universe from the time of Pythagoras to the early seventeenth century, encompassing discoveries and theories. The book makes a compelling case that Shakespeare's celestial knowledge far surpasses what was commonly known during his era.

This book is of immense interest to students and teachers who question Shakespeare's alleged disregard or ignorance of the celestial sciences. Historians of science and scholars specializing in epistemology and its relationship to the canon will also find it enlightening, as will those who study how Shakespeare acquired the data that his plays convey.

The author's meticulous analysis and compelling arguments shed new light on Shakespeare's engagement with the celestial realm, challenging prevailing notions and revealing a deeper understanding of his artistic genius. By delving into the temporal, situational, and verbal nuances of his plays, the author uncovers a coherent cosmological framework that aligns with the advancements in astronomy and cosmology during his lifetime. This book not only expands our knowledge of Shakespeare but also contributes to our broader understanding of the intersection of science, literature, and cultural history.

Weight: 371g
Dimension: 225 x 150 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781433191701
Edition number: New ed