In the Path of the Moon

This collection of articles by Rochberg (Near Eastern studies, University of California, Berkeley) presents various aspects of Babylonian celestial science, particularly as it affected Greek, Roman, medieval and, eventually, modern astronomy and astrology. She notes that, although the Babylonian influence was known from classical texts, the extent of the influence could not be judged until the deciphering of cuneiform texts in the late nineteenth century. The essays, originally published in journals and festschrifts cover the development of astrology, divination, the Zodiac and horoscopy. Rochberg looks at the mathematical calculations behind the conclusions of the astronomers. The methods for charting the heavens include provision for events that were known to be highly unlikely, if not impossible. Scientific explanations of the work of the astronomers are combined with the religious and divinatory conclusions that made such painstaking research necessary. Rochberg demonstrates deep erudition in her understanding of the languages, philosophy and mathematics of the Babylonians and their heirs. Her work is essential for those studying the many cultures that drew upon Babylonian tradition. Annotation c2010 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

Francesca Rochberg, Ph.D., University of Chicago, is Catherine and William Magistretti Distinguished Professor of Near Eastern Studies, Department of Near Eastern Studies at the University of California, Berkeley. She has published widely on Babylonian divination and science, including The Heavenly Writing: Divination, Horoscopy and Astronomy in Mesopotamian Culture (Cambridge University Press, 2004).