Short description:

The first book of its kind in English looks at a wide range and diversity of literature and studies Greek and Roman approaches to the broad discipline, which in classical antiquity included weather, earthquakes and comets amongst more.

Long description:

The first book of its kind in English, Ancient Meteorology discusses Greek and Roman approaches and attitudes to this broad discipline, which in classical antiquity included not only 'weather', but occurrences such as earthquakes and comets that today would be regarded as geological, astronomical or seismological.

The range and diversity of this literature highlights the question of scholarly authority in antiquity and illustrates how writers responded to the meteorological information presented by their literary predecessors.

Ancient Meteorology will be a valuable reference tool for classicists and those with an interest in the history of science.

'Offers distinct and major advantages ... insightful ... Taub's book capably and effectively closes a gap in the literature of the history and ancient science ... It is a book that both specialists and beginners will need to use when approaching the subject.' - RHIZAI

'Reports clearly, succinctly, and with convincing control and expertise ... I warmly recommend her book.' - Classical World

Table of Contents:

List of illustrations, A note on the spelling of Greek names and terms, Abbreviations, Acknowledgements, 1 ANCIENT METEOROLOGY IN GREECE AND ROME: AN INTRODUCTION, 2 PREDICTION AND THE ROLE OF TRADITION: ALMANACS AND SIGNS, PARAPE? GMATA AND POEMS, 3 EXPLAINING DIFFICULT PHENOMENA, 4 METEOROLOGY AS A MEANS TO AN END: PHILOSOPHERS AND POETS, 5 AN ENCYCLOPEDIC APPROACH, Notes, Bibliography, Index