Boethius, On Geometry (with other geometrical works)

A large ornamental drop-cap 'G' in blue and red ink features intricate filigree and scrollwork extending down the left margin.

in Latin

Geometry is the discipline of motionless magnitude and the contemplative consideration of forms, through which the boundaries of each thing are customarily declared. It is also an invisible document of the philosophers, which is the breadth or dimension of the earth. It is said that this discipline was first practiced in Egypt through all its forms, due to the necessity of [marking] the boundaries of the land, which the river Nile would overflow at the time of flooding. The masters of this discipline were previously called surveyors. Cassiodorus, the most learned of the Latins, records that he explained the cause of this name by saying: first, indeed, through the setting of boundaries for the dimensions of the lands, the unity of peace arrived among wandering and discordant peoples, and then the circuit of the whole year was divided by a monthly number. Then those surveyors were also taught how to measure the year. Then he relates that the dimension of the globe of the earth was collected by a probable reason; thus it happened that the discipline itself received the name of Geometry, because it would endure for long ages. The utility of Geometry is threefold: for faculty, for health, and for the soul. For faculty, as it is for mechanics and architects. For health, as for physicians. For the soul, as for philosophers. If we seek this art beforehand with diligent care and a moderate mind, it divides with great clarity that which is manifest to our senses through strong reasons. And furthermore: for it is for the mind to approach that entire heavenly machine by an examinable