Fora general audience interested insolving mysteries in art,
history, and literature using the methods of science, 'forensic
astronomy' is a thrilling new field of exploration. Astronomical
calculations are the basis of the studies, which have the advantage
of bringing to readers both evocative images and a better
understanding of the skies.
Weather facts, volcano studies, topography, tides, historical
letters and diaries, famous paintings, military records, and the
friendly assistance of experts in related fields add variety,
depth, and interest to the work. The chosen topics are selected for
their wide public recognition and intrigue, involving artists such
as Vincent van Gogh, Claude Monet, Edvard Munch, and Ansel Adams;
historical events such as the Battle of Marathon, the death of
Julius Caesar, the American Revolution, and World War II; and
literary authors such as Chaucer, Shakespeare, Joyce, and Mary
Shelley. This book sets out to answer these mysteries indicated
with the means and expertise of astronomy, opening the door to a
richer experience of human culture and its relationship with
nature.
Each subject is carefully analyzed. As an example using the study
of sky paintings by Vincent van Gogh, the analytical method would
include:
- computer calculations of historical skies above France in the
19th century
- finding and quoting the clues found in translations of original
letters by Van Gogh
- making site visits to France to determine the precise locations
when Van Gogh set up his easel and what celestial objects are
depicted.
For each historical event influenced by astronomy, there would be a
different kind of mystery to be solved. As an example:
- How can the phase of the Moon and time of moonrise help to
explain a turning point of the American Civil War - the fatal
wounding of Stonewall Jackson at Chancellorsville in 1863?
For each literary reference to astronomy, it was determined which
celestial objects were being described and making an argument that
the author is describing an actual event. For example, what was the
date of the moonlit scene when Mary Shelley first had the idea for
her novel Frankenstein?
These and more fun riddles will enchant and delight the fan of
art and astronomy. "
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