A Dialogue on Natural Philosophy (Dragmaticon Philosophiae)

William of Conches
Translated by Matthew Curr and Italo Ronca

Notre Dame Texts in Medieval Culture

This long-awaited English translation now makes available what is arguably the most original and systematic synthesis of Western thought concerning the structure of the physical universe, as understood in the twelfth century. William’s text fills the scientific gap between late antiquity and Newton and has influenced the thought of countless writers and thinkers.

William’s text fills the scientific gap between late antiquity and Newton, and has influenced the thought of countless writers and thinkers. Medievalists, theologians, and scholars working in the fields of philosophy and history of science will welcome this first-ever English translation of the Dramaticon, especially for its systematic annotations and full references to doctrinal and literary sources.

Reviews

“Ronca has performed a great service to his author, and to the study of twelfth century thought by making an important text, that deserves to be better known, available in an authoritative edition and a very serviceable translation.” — International Journal of the Classical Tradition