Sources and studies of Quaestiones naturales by Plutarch

Abstract

The study introduces Plutarch of Cheronea (c. 50 – c. 125 CE) into the natural writing “Quaestiones naturales” (Aetia physica) preserved in the collection of “Moralia”. Its introductory part contains an outline of the manuscript and editorial history of the text to the present day, and indicates doubts about the title, date of writing and the authenticity of the treatise. It also explains the specifics of the problem genre, the peripatetic schema of issues, and the thematic structure of the compilation collection of forty-one hydrological, botanical, zoological, cynegetical, medical, dietetic and meteorological issues discussed by Plutarch. Particular attention is paid to ancient scientific sources, the way they are quoted, and the possible influences of this medioplatonist who takes up typically peripatetic problems. The actual part of the work is the first Polish translation of the treatise, commented on, which takes into account the broadest possible spectrum of references to ancient literature and newer studies presenting selected scientific concepts in the Cheroneys approach, i.e. anti-peristasis, emanations, pneuma or sympatheia.