| Philosophische Fakultät, SPF Wissen. Räume. Medien., Forschung

New publication: "Zeichen und Wunder"

The world is an uncertain place: Again and again we are threatened by epidemics, catastrophes and wars that we do not foresee, but which completely disrupt our lives. Since ancient times, people have therefore tried to explore the future by means of signs and wonders. The humanist Lycosthenes wanted to make this knowledge useful for modern times: For anyone who understands the omens that existed in history can change his or her behaviour and perhaps still avert disaster.

Lycosthenes' book was a "bestseller" after its publication in 1552. Kai Brodersen, Professor of Ancient Culture at the University of Erfurt, now presents it in a new translation in two languages for the first time. Included are the 56 woodcuts of the first edition, which vividly illustrate how the signs and wonders were imagined and may still be imagined today. Perhaps Lycosthenes was right - and we can learn from history?

[Translate to English:] Cover

Kai Brodersen
Lycosthenes: Zeichen und Wunder
Wiesbaden: Verlagshaus Römerweg, 2021
ISBN: 978-3-7374-1169-1
224 pages
15 EUR