HERON OF ALEXANDRIA [ACCOUNTING FOR]

THE ARTILLERY OF CTESIBIUS, THAT IS,

THE MAKING OF PROJECTILES.

HERON [OF ALEXANDRIA],

ON THE MAKING OF PROJECTILES,

[FOLLOWING] CTESIBIUS.

The greatest and most necessary part of that study which is devoted to Philosophy is tranquility itself. Concerning this, many questions have long existed among those who have applied themselves to philosophical matters; these questions are still active, as they are even likely to increase daily: Nor will they ever reach a conclusion from that investigation which is conducted through logical reasoning. Mechanics original: "Machinatio." In this context, it refers to the broad field of engineering and physical science. alone, surpassing all other questions which arise from debating the subject, easily demonstrates that all men can lead an undisturbed life, by employing a single and indeed very brief part of it, which they call Belopoeia original: "Βελοποιίαν." This refers to the art of designing and building "belos" or projectiles, such as catapults and ballistae., that is, the making of projectiles. For by the work of this art, the invasions of enemies will not bring fear even when peace is flourishing; nor when war is imminent will any fear attack, for that same Philosophy which is delivered through mechanical instruments original: "per organa," referring to the physical engines and machines. provides aid. Therefore, this part must always be prepared, and every consideration must be had of it. For if it is properly tended to, there will be hope that, in times of peace, peace itself will [grow] daily greater

The greatest and most necessary part of the pursuit of Philosophy is that which concerns peace of mind ataraxia: a state of serene calmness and freedom from fear, often cited as the goal of ancient Greek philosophy. Concerning this, many inquiries have existed among those who handle Philosophy, and they exist until now; * * and I think and I believe that * * ever to have the inquiry concerning it through words will never have an end. But * * mechanical mechanics, surpassing the teaching concerning this through words, has taught all men to understand how to live without disturbance, through one and a very small part of it. I speak, indeed, of that which is according to the so-called making of projectiles. Through which, neither in a state of peace will they ever be disturbed by the attacks of enemies and foes, nor when war has begun will they ever be disturbed, because of the Philosophy handed down by it through mechanical instruments. Therefore, it is necessary to have this part prepared at all times, and to take every forethought. For when there is much peace, one might expect more