The publication of Quaestiones phisicales in 1527 occurred shortly before a violent physical altercation between Gaspar Lax and his nephew, Michael Servetus. This incident, which led to the expulsion of Servetus, remains a defining point in the professional life of the mathematician and logician who spent his early career navigating the academic circles of Paris.
Academic Career in Paris
Born in 1487 in Sariñena, Spain, Lax pursued his foundational studies at the University of Zaragoza, where he earned a master's degree. His path led him to the University of Paris, a hub for scholastic inquiry at the time. Between 1507 and 1508, and later from 1517 to 1523, he held positions at the Collège de Calvi. Additionally, he taught at the Collège de Montaigu from 1508 to 1517, studying under John Mair. During these years in France, he gained a reputation as the Prince of Sophists.
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Lax produced a significant volume of work focusing on logic, propositions, and arithmetic. His early output included Tractatus exponibilitum Propositionum in 1507, followed by De Syllogismis in 1509. He expanded his focus to include De Solubilibus et Insolubilibus in 1511 and multiple texts on propositions and proportions in 1512 and 1515, such as Arithmetica speculativa. These works demonstrate his deep involvement in the analytical structures of sixteenth-century scholasticism.
Leadership at the University of Zaragoza
After returning to Spain, Lax served at the University of Huesca before securing a high-ranking position at the University of Zaragoza. By 1520, he held the titles of High Master, vice-chancellor, and rector, while also acting as one of the four Masters of Arts. During his tenure, he adopted a tolerant stance toward the works of Erasmus, permitting their use within the university curriculum. He maintained his academic duties until his death in 1560, though his final years were marked by blindness and gout.
Fast facts
- Born: 1487, Sariñena, Spain
- Died: 1560, Zaragoza, Spain
- Primary Fields: Mathematics, Logic, Philosophy
- Known As: Prince of Sophists
- Notable Student: Michael Servetus
- Burial Site: Church of San Nicolás de Bari
- Language of Academic Works: Latin
Questions readers ask
What caused the conflict between Gaspar Lax and Michael Servetus?
The exact cause is unknown, but records suggest it involved theological disagreements or a dispute over Servetus's potential contribution to the work Quaestiones phisicales.
Where is Gaspar Lax buried?
He is buried at the Church of San Nicolás de Bari in Zaragoza.
Achievements
- Held posts at University of Zaragoza, Collège de Calvi and Collège de Montaigu
