1.

Record Nr.

UNINA9910827778403321

Autore

Riedweg Christoph

Titolo

Pythagoras : his life, teaching, and influence / / Christoph Riedweg ; translated by Steven Rendall in collaboration with Christoph Riedweg and Andreas Schatzmann

Pubbl/distr/stampa

Ithaca, : Cornell University Press, 2005

ISBN

0-8014-6490-0

0-8014-6484-6

Edizione

[1st ed.]

Descrizione fisica

1 online resource (198 p.)

Disciplina

182/.2

B

Soggetti

Philosophy, Ancient

Lingua di pubblicazione

Inglese

Formato

Materiale a stampa

Livello bibliografico

Monografia

Note generali

Bibliographic Level Mode of Issuance: Monograph

Nota di bibliografia

Includes bibliographical references (p. [163]-175) and index.

Nota di contenuto

Frontmatter -- Contents -- Preface -- 1. Fiction and Truth: Ancient Stories about Pythagoras -- 2. In Search of the Historical Pythagoras -- 3. The Pythagorean Secret Society -- 4. Thinkers Influenced by Pythagoras and His Pupils -- Chronology -- Abbreviations -- Notes -- Bibliography -- Index

Sommario/riassunto

One of the most important mathematical theorems is named after Pythagoras of Samos, but this semi-mythical Greek sage has more to offer than formulas. He is said to have discovered the numerical nature of the basic consonances and transposed the musical proportions to the cosmos, postulating a "harmony of the spheres." He may have coined the words "cosmos" and "philosophy." He is also believed to have taught the doctrine of transmigration of souls and therefore to have advised a vegetarian diet.Ancient legends have Pythagoras conversing with dogs, bears, and bulls. A distinctly Pythagorean way of life, including detailed ritual regulations, was observed by his disciples, who were organized as a secret society. Later, Pythagorean and Platonic teachings became fused. In this Platonized form, Pythagoreanism has remained influential through medieval Christianity and the Renaissance down to the present.Christoph Riedweg's book is an engaging introduction to the fundamental contributions of Pythagoras to the establishment of European culture. To penetrate the intricate maze of



lore and ascertain what history can tell us about the philosopher, Riedweg not only examines the written record but also considers Pythagoras within the cultural, intellectual, and spiritual context of his times. The result is a vivid overview of the life and teachings of a crucial Greek thinker and his most important followers.