The Acerba, an encyclopaedic poem written in sesta rima, serves as the primary testament to the intellectual pursuits of the Italian physician and astronomer known as Cecco d'Ascoli. Born in 1269 in Ancarano, he navigated the complex intersections of medieval science and philosophy before his life concluded in Florence during 1327.
Academic Appointments and Scientific Work
Cecco d'Ascoli established his professional reputation as a teacher and practitioner at the University of Bologna. By 1322, he held a professorship in astrology, a field he approached alongside astronomy and philosophy. His scholarly output included the work De eccentricis et epicyclis, in addition to various letters and manuscripts. These writings demonstrated his engagement with contemporary natural science, covering phenomena such as meteorology, planetary influences, and the physical properties of minerals.
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His academic theories drew immediate scrutiny from the clerical party, particularly after he published a commentary on the Sphere of John de Sacrobosco. This text contained theories regarding the influence of demons that resulted in a formal condemnation in 1324. He was ordered to observe specific prayers and fasts while paying a fine of seventy crowns. To avoid further disciplinary measures, he relocated to Florence, where he secured a position within the household of Carlo di Calabria.
The Acerba and Final Condemnation
The Acerba, intended as a comprehensive compendium of contemporary knowledge, was organized into four books and an unfinished fifth section dedicated to theology. The poem discussed physiognomy, moral philosophy, and the behavior of animals. His penchant for provocative statements, including critiques of Dante and Guido Cavalcanti, contributed to his isolation. Renewed accusations of impiety led to a second trial. He was convicted of heresy and executed in Florence on 26 September 1327.
Fast facts
- Born: 1269, Ancarano
- Died: 1327, Florence
- Primary Occupations: physician, astronomer, poet
- Key Publication: Acerba
- Academic Position: Professor of Astrology, University of Bologna
- Languages: medieval Latin, medieval Italian
- Legacy: The lunar crater Cichus
Questions readers ask
What was the subject matter of the Acerba?
It was an encyclopaedic poem covering astronomy, meteorology, astrology, physiognomy, mineralogy, and moral philosophy.
Why was Cecco d'Ascoli executed?
He was tried and sentenced for heresy due to his controversial theories and alleged impiety.
Achievements
- Notable work: Acerba
- Notable work: De eccentricis et epicyclis
- Notable work: Letters
- Held posts at University of Bologna
- Fields: astronomy, astrology and philosophy
