Considerare ve desiderare: Astronomik bir etimoloji

Abstract

The etymology desīderāre and consīderāre has been a controversial subject. The presence of the word sīdus (star/constellation) and the roman rituals related to the observation of the stars have influenced numerous dictionary compilers who propend for an explanation tackling stars observation and magic. Researchers have focused on the examination of the word sīdus and have found conflictive results, linking the meaning and etymology of these words to the sectorial languages of astrology, hunting, or fishing. Considering that this etymology supposedly incorporates astronomy, intended as science or practical knowledge, this article aims to offer a different explanation for desīderāre and consīderāre. In ancient times the observation of the sky was pivotal for various activities because the stars were providing humans with accurate indications of time. These indicators were composed of different constellations. While sīdus refers to a constellation or group of stars, a single star is named stella in Latin. Besides, agriculture was an indispensable and time-based activity, which was impossible to do without the help of the sky although it was fundamental for the survival of communities. This interdependence was present in both Greek and Latin literature, as the star-based calendars are a common trait found in many ancient civilizations. Against this background, this article argues that desīderāre and consīderāre pertain to the agricultural language and it incorporates both values of expectation and pondering that are related to the anxiety for the new vital cycles and the planning of agricultural works.