The history of philosophy, in eight parts by Thomas Stanley.

Sect. 2. Of the Sun, Moon, and Starres.

HE first observed the Apparent diameter of the Sun, which is the angle made in the eye, to be the 720 part of his orbe: This doubtlesse is the meaning of Laertius, his words these, 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 Then which reading, which implies the Sun to be 720 times lesser then the Moon, nothing is more ridiculous; for knowing (as is granted by all) the cause of Eclipses, he must likewise know the Sun to be greater then the Moon nor is it much mended by those who read 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 The text seems rather to require 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 or some∣thing to that effect, of which, thus* 1.1 Archimedes, this we suppose when Aristarchus saith the Sun appeareth, as being the 720 part of the circle of the Zodiack; for he considered how he might by instruments take the angle made in the eye by the Suns apparent diameter: but to take any such thing exactly is not easie; for ne then the sight, nor the hand, nor the instruments wherewith the observation is made, are of credit sufficient to demonstrate it exactly. This correction Apuletus thus confirmes,

In his declining age he made an excellent demonstration of the propor∣tion of the Sun, which I have not only learned (saith Apuleius) but con∣firmed by practise, how many times the Suns magnitude is comprehended in the circle which his motion makes. This, as soon as he found out, Thales shew'd to Mandraytus of Priene, who being infin••tely delight∣ed with this new and unexpected knowledge, bad him ask what he would in recompence for such an excellent invention: It will be reward enough for me, said Thales, if what you have learned of me, whensoever you communicate it to others, you professe me to be the Inventor.

He first found out the constellation of the lesser Bear,* 1.2 Cal∣limachus

He to Miletus sail'd, invited By Thales glory, who quick-sighted Is said t' have mark'd the lesser Bear, The starre by which Phoenicians steer.

Higynus affirmes that he first called it 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 the Bear.

Notes

• * 1.1

  in Arenarie.
• * 1.2

  Eaert. & A∣chill. Tat. Isag. in Arat.