Abstract (english) | Hermann of Carinthia was a notable translator and scholar engaged in the European movement of translation of Arabic scientific texts during the 12th century. Upon finishing his schooling at Chartres, he embarked on a journey to the Middle East with Robert of Ketton during which he learned Arabic. The two continued their studies in Spain in 1138. They
worked on translating a number of mathematical and astronomical texts in an effort to ultimately transalte Ptolemy's Almagest. It is uncertain if that goal was accomplished. Hermann collaborated with other scholars as well, such as his pupil Rudolph of Bruges, astrologer and translator Hugo of Santalla and Peter the Venerable, abbot of Cluny. The latter
enlisted the help of Hermann and Robert in translating Muslim religious texts, gathered in the so – called Collectio toletana. Hermann's notable addition is the translation of De generatione Mahumet. Hermann's notable translations of scientific works are a partial translation of Euclid's Elements, Ptolemy's Planispherae, which is the only known Latin translation of that
text, Abu Ma'shar's Maius introductorium in astronomiam and Sahl ibn Bishr's Fatidica. As an author, he is responsible for two astrological compilations, Liber imbrium and De occultis and an original work, De essentiis. Finished in 1143. in Beziers, it puts forth a cosmological system, heavily influenced by Aristotle's natural philosophy and astrology, an approach taken
from Abu Ma'shar's Maius introductorium in astronomiam. It also displays Hermann's tendency in producing scientific works intended for study and debate, as was the case in Arabic science of the time. His known direct influence limited to a few contemporaries and his general influence as yet unclear, Hermann's significance stems from his contribution to the
overall accumulation of scientific knowledge and the spread of the Arabic scientific method within the wider context of European translation. |