L’astronomie et Bessarion : tradition et modernité

Abstract

This paper gives a quick survey of Byzantine training in astronomy at the time of Bessarion. It appears that Bessarion, in spite of his opening to modern astronomical studies under the influence of Regiomontanus, remained attached to the Byzantine tradition. For example, his letter De errore Paschatis to Pope Paul II is directly inspired by the treatise on Easter of Barlaam. The Introduction to the Almagest written in Greek by George of Trebizond was severely criticized by Bessarion and Regiomontanus, but there are no modern studies concerning this work. A quick analysis shows some interesting novelties introduced by George in the arithmetical procedures and terminology, but his criticism of Theon was not accepted by his opponents. A serious study of George’s writings would be highly recommended if one wishes to give a correct estimation of George ’s work.