Ptolemy

Astronomy Roman-Egyptian 100 – 170 368 quotes

Geocentric model dominated astronomy for 1400 years

Quotes by Ptolemy

We should not be surprised if there are some errors in our maps, for the earth is vast and difficult to measure.

Geographia

The best way to represent the earth is by means of a globe.

Geographia

Astrology is the art of predicting the future by observing the positions of the stars.

Tetrabiblos

The stars exert an influence on human affairs.

Tetrabiblos

The positions of the planets at the time of birth determine a person's character and destiny.

Tetrabiblos

Astrology is a science, but it is also an art.

Tetrabiblos

The influence of the stars is not absolute, but it is powerful.

Tetrabiblos

The study of optics is concerned with the nature of light and vision.

Optics

Light travels in straight lines.

Optics

The angle of incidence is equal to the angle of reflection.

Optics

Refraction is the bending of light as it passes from one medium to another.

Optics

The eye sees by means of rays that emanate from it.

Optics

Music is the art of combining sounds in a pleasing way.

Harmonics

The intervals between musical notes can be expressed as ratios of whole numbers.

Harmonics

Consonance and dissonance are determined by the mathematical relationships between notes.

Harmonics

The study of harmonics is closely related to the study of astronomy.

Harmonics

The universe is a harmonious whole, and music is a reflection of that harmony.

Harmonics

I know that I am mortal by nature, and ephemeral; but when I trace at my pleasure the windings to and fro of the heavenly bodies, I no longer touch the earth with my feet: I stand with Zeus himself and take my fill of ambrosia.

Almagest, Book I, Chapter 1

The best way to learn is to teach.

Attributed, likely from a commentary or preface

The heavens are a sphere, and move as a sphere.

Almagest, Book I, Chapter 3