Description: The History of the Sky by Noel Antoine Pluche, is one of the most important and well-known treatises on astronomy and cosmology. Histoire du Ciel (History of the Sky) is a notable work from the 18th century, written during the Enlightenment, a period of intense intellectual development and questioning of traditional authority, particularly in areas of philosophy, science, and religion. The book was written by Nol-Antoine Pluche, a French priest and natural philosopher, and it was first published in 1739. The title itself reflects the overarching themes of the book: the examination of ancient religious and philosophical systems, specifically their relationship with celestial phenomena. In this treatise, Pluche aims to investigate and critique the origins of idolatryreligious practices that venerate idols or celestial bodies. At the time, many societies still maintained beliefs in the influence of stars, planets, and other celestial bodies on earthly affairs, a practice rooted in astrological traditions. These were perceived by many Enlightenment thinkers as superstitions and philosophical errors. Pluches work fits within the broader intellectual context of the Enlightenment's opposition to these superstitions and attempts to explain the natural world through empirical observation and rationality, rather than through mystical or religious interpretation. This work would have had significant implications in intellectual circles during the 18th century. As an Enlightenment text, it contributed to the wider discussion on the role of religion, science, and philosophy in society. Pluches rejection of idolatry and astrology aligned with the growing skepticism toward metaphysical or mystical interpretations of nature, helping to lay the groundwork for modern scientific inquiry. However, its important to note that Pluche himself was a priest, so his rejection of idolatry was not a complete rejection of religion but rather a critique of what he saw as misguided religious practices. Histoire du Ciel would have resonated with contemporary debates between religion and the nascent scientific community. The Enlightenment was a time when thinkers were increasingly advocating for a separation of religious dogma from scientific exploration. Pluches work sits somewhat in the middle of this debate, as he supports rational thought and critique of superstition but within a framework that doesnt entirely reject Christian beliefs. His critique of ancient philosophies would also have been seen as part of the broader Enlightenment endeavor to reassess and sometimes discard the classical traditions that had dominated European thought for centuries. This is an important text that bridges the gap between religious critique and the burgeoning Enlightenment emphasis on reason, scientific inquiry, and skepticism towards mystical or supernatural explanations of the natural world. It represents an effort to align religious understanding with the scientific advancements of the time while rejecting outdated practices like astrology and idolatry. This particular edition was printed in Venice in 1741 by the famous Venetian publisher Giambattista Pasquali, known for producing high-quality scholarly works. The book was part of a broader trend in 18th-century Europe to disseminate scientific and philosophical knowledge to a wider audience, particularly in an era where religious and scientific views were often in tension. This is both tomes 1 and 2 (complete set). A few spots of light foxing. All pages are complete and stain free. A signature has been scribbled out on title page. Vellum binding is in great condition. Binding is square and tight. See pictures for more details on condition. I can provide more pictures upon request. All books ship usps media mail. Check out my other items for more rare and antiquarian books.
Price: 399 USD
Location: Kenmore, Washington
End Time: 2024-11-05T02:36:37.000Z
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Restocking Fee: No
Return shipping will be paid by: Buyer
All returns accepted: Returns Accepted
Item must be returned within: 30 Days
Refund will be given as: Money Back
Binding: Vellum
Place of Publication: Venice
MPN: Does not apply
Publisher: Giambattista Pasquali
Subject: Philosophy
Original/Facsimile: Original
Year Printed: 1741
Brand: Unbranded
Language: Italian
ISBN: Does not apply
Special Attributes: 1st Edition, Illustrated, Limited Edition
Region: Europe
Author: Noël-Antoine Pluche
Country/Region of Manufacture: Italy
Topic: Religion