Routledge The Arabs and the Stars - Variorum Collected Studies

Explore the profound impact of Arabic-Islamic science on European astronomy through this scholarly collection. Many of the star names and astronomical terms used today have direct origins in Arabic, a legacy documented in these detailed articles. Professor Kunitzsch examines the deep knowledge held by the Arabs and other peoples of the Islamic world regarding fixed stars, constellations, and their associated astrological traditions. This work traces the evolution of astronomical thought, showing how early Arab folk astronomy changed through the integration of ancient Greek, Indian, and Persian sources. A central focus is the influence of Ptolemy's Almagest on these traditions. This book provides a clear look at how these diverse scientific influences merged to shape the astronomical landscape of medieval Europe. It is an essential resource for those studying the history of science, medieval studies, and the origins of modern astronomical terminology.