Description
A Platonic philosopher, Paracelsian chemist, Ovidian poet, and devoted circle of relatives man, Tycho Brahe used to be the last Renaissance man and the first great organizer of modern science. This book provides the fullest portrait to be had of the research and cultural interests of the man who became the premier patron-practitioner of science in sixteenth-century Europe. Starting from Brahe’s well reputed role of astronomer, creator Christianson adds lesser known details of the man who used to be both a geodetic surveyor in addition to a garden designer, and in the long run established a new role of scientist as administrator, active reformer, and natural philosopher. Coverage reveals how from his private island in Denmark, Brahe used patronage, printing, friendship, and marriage to incorporate women and men skilled in science, technology, and the fine arts into his program of cosmic reform. Through their teamwork, they achieved breakthroughs in astronomy, scientific method, and research organization that were essential to the birth of modern science. Also included are over 100 capsule biographies of Tycho’s clients, coworkers, and friends, including Johannes Kepler, Willebrord Snel, Willem Blaeu, several bishops, and a lot of technical specialists all of whom assisted in shaping the culture of the Scientific Revolution. This pioneering exposition will appeal to science history buffs, especially those with an interest in the late Renaissance and will inspire any person who has a passion for science and a penchant for the world of ideas. John Robert Christianson received his Ph.D. from the University of Minnesota. He used to be dubbed Knight of the Royal Norwegian Order of Merit by King Harald II in 1995.