Sic Mundus Creatus Est: Connection, Convergence, Coherence in Manilius' Astronomica

Abstract

The thesis examines the notion of interconnectedness in the Astronomica and its significance for the poem. Particularly, it argues that the concept of an interlinked universe pervades Manilius' text and brings together various aspects, from its philosophy to its language and structure. Chapter 1 sets the stage by discussing how universal interconnection emerges from, and legitimises, the astrological nature of the poem. Moreover, it offers a historical analysis of the concept of cosmic sympathy and traces the linguistic lineage of the terminology of (inter)connection across Greek and Latin sources. Chapter 2 focuses on the specific terminology used by Manilius to convey the notions of connection, convergence, and coherence. It shows how Manilius portrays the universe as an interconnected whole wherein the stars' interactions shape humanity's behaviour. Additionally, connections between humanity and the divine are highlighted, including the roles of the poetic persona, the reader, and the poem itself. Chapter 3 examines intratextually four key terms in the Astronomica (opus, ratio, labor, and leges/iura) and specifically how their application to both the celestial and terrestrial realms bridges the gap between them, creating a sense of unity and coherence within the poem. In chapter 4, the focus shifts to the structure of the poem, which is examined from both a static and a dynamic viewpoint. It argues against speculations about the poem's unfinished condition and explores how the proems and epilogues of each book are connected, shaping the poem into a unified whole mirroring the universe it portrays. It also follows a linear and 'predictive' approach, whereby the poem's finale is presented as an astrological outcome.