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Physical Science in the Time of Nero: Naturales Quaestiones (1910) - Page 17 - Source Library

Physical Science in the Time of Nero: Naturales Quaestiones

Seneca; John Clarke · 1910

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English

CHAPTER	PAGE
XXXIV.	Mistaken views regarding the relation of lightning to other omens. The former are of equal, not superior, value.
XXXV.	Fate cannot be altered by expiatory rites or entreaty.
XXXVI.	"God is not a man" that he should change fate. If so, what is the use of religious rites?
XXXVII.	Answer: Fate determines some things only conditionally; the alternative outcomes are decided by the conduct—active or passive—of the worshipper.
XXXVIII.	This action of the worshipper is also part of fate. The soothsayer, like the physician, is merely a minister of fate. The discussion of free will is deferred.
XXXIX.	According to Caecina, there are three classes of thunderbolts, judged by their indicators.
XL.	These are better described as kinds of prognostications rather than types of bolts. The different species of bolts are distinguished by their effects: boring, splitting, or burning. There are fine distinctions in the Latin terms used.
XLI.	A kind that stains or discolors. The Etruscan view of the three kinds of bolt according to their classification.
XLII.	The Etruscans were purposeful in attributing certain motives and actions to Jupiter. Their theory was designed for the benefit of the ignorant masses.
XLIII.	"Which things are an allegory." An example is set for earthly rulers to be merciful and to consider their judgments carefully.
XLIV.	Jove does not change his missiles, but there are gradations in the offense being punished. That is the lesson.
XLV.	By "Jove," the Etruscans meant—as we do—all that is greatest and best: Fate, Providence, Nature, and the Universe.
XLVI.	He is the source of the thunder’s power, though he does not personally oversee every stroke. Why he spares the guilty is a different matter, to be discussed elsewhere.
XLVII.	An erroneous classification of thunderbolts based on time.
XLVIII.	This must be incorrect because time is always limited. A better method of treatment is that of Attalus; place, time, person, and other factors must all be examined.
XLIX.	Caecina’s division, his terminology, and their meanings.
L.	The method of Attalus is much better, as it is based on true significance.
LI.	The significance of some bolts does not affect us, or does not reach us.
LII.	The force of lightning as seen in different materials and at different times in the same material.
LIII.	Poisonous effects: these may be analyzed later. A panegyric on philosophy.
LIV.	Returning to the opinion of Posidonius (and Aristotle) regarding the cause of thunder: an explosion of air.
LV.	The collision of clouds may produce it. Air is the cause in this instance as well. Shooting stars are associated with thunder, but this is the exception rather than the rule.

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