Abstract

MARTIN PRIETO, Pablo. Isidore de Seville and the Limits of Knowledge: Etymology, Astrology, Magic. Temas Mediev. [online]. 2005, vol.13, pp.125-156. ISSN 0327-5094.

The aim of this paper is to establish a relationship between the different orientations of Isidorian thought next to the domain of superstition or to the kind of knowledge which is on the verge of reason, such as his mystical conception of etymology as a way to penetrate the secrets of the inner knowledge of things in themselves, and the partial truth which, according to his views, should be recognised within mantic sciences such as astrology and magic. Each of Isidore's views is confronted to the models provided by the ancient and Christian traditions, in order to get a full acknowledgement of his own contribution. The exposition of Isidore's ideas on numerology affords a more thorough view of the problem.

Keywords : Isidore of Seville; Etymology; Astrology; Magic; Numerology; Superstition.