Eratosthenes

Definition

Eratosthenes was a Greek mathematician, geographer, and astronomer who is best known for calculating the Earth's circumference with remarkable accuracy in the 3rd century BCE. His work laid the foundation for later advancements in geography and science, and he played a significant role in the spread of Greek knowledge and culture during the Hellenistic period.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Eratosthenes was the chief librarian at the Library of Alexandria, one of the most important centers of learning in the ancient world.
2. He devised a method to measure the Earth’s circumference by comparing shadows cast by sticks in different locations at noon on the same day.
3. Eratosthenes is credited with coining the term 'geography' and developing one of the first maps of the known world.
4. His calculations for the Earth's circumference were remarkably close to modern measurements, showing his advanced understanding of mathematics and geometry.
5. Eratosthenes’ work exemplified how Greek culture and scientific inquiry flourished during the Hellenistic period, influencing future scholars and thinkers.

Review Questions

• How did Eratosthenes' methods contribute to advancements in geography during the Hellenistic period?
  • Eratosthenes' innovative methods, particularly his approach to measuring the Earth's circumference using angles of shadows cast by sticks, marked a significant advancement in geography. By applying mathematical calculations to real-world observations, he set a precedent for future geographers and scientists. His work demonstrated how scientific inquiry could enhance understanding of the natural world, reflecting the broader spread of Greek knowledge and ideas during the Hellenistic period.
• Discuss the significance of Eratosthenes' work in relation to other scholars of his time.
  • Eratosthenes' contributions were significant not only for his own calculations but also as a part of a larger intellectual tradition among Hellenistic scholars. His role as chief librarian at the Library of Alexandria positioned him among other great thinkers like Euclid and Archimedes. Together, they pushed boundaries in mathematics, science, and philosophy, illustrating how interconnected knowledge helped fuel advancements during this era.
• Evaluate Eratosthenes’ impact on future generations of scientists and how his work exemplifies the blending of cultures in the Hellenistic world.
  • Eratosthenes' impact on future generations is profound; his methods and findings influenced many later scientists like Ptolemy and Copernicus. His ability to blend observation with mathematical reasoning exemplifies how Hellenistic culture synthesized various traditions—Greek, Egyptian, and others—into a more comprehensive understanding of the world. This blending not only advanced scientific thought but also contributed to a cultural legacy that shaped Western intellectual history.

Related terms

Geography: The study of the Earth's physical features, environments, and the relationships between people and their environments.

Circumference: The distance around a circle, which Eratosthenes calculated to be about 39,375 kilometers based on his measurements.

Hellenistic Period:

The era following the conquests of Alexander the Great, characterized by the spread of Greek culture and influence across a vast empire.