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Henry Bate, also known as Henricus Bate or Johannes de Bateris, was a prominent medieval mathematician, astronomer, and physician. Born around 1246, he hailed from England and made significant contributions to the fields of mathematics, astronomy, and medical science during the 13th and 14th centuries.
Bate studied at the University of Oxford, where he excelled in his studies and developed a strong foundation in mathematics and natural philosophy. He later travelled to Italy, which was a hub of intellectual activity at the time, to further his education and engage with the leading scholars of the era.
Bate’s most notable work is “Tabulae astronomicae,” a comprehensive astronomical treatise. Published in 1277, this work became highly influential and was widely used as a reference by astronomers for centuries. It presented tables and calculations for determining planetary positions, lunar eclipses, and solar eclipses, providing astronomers with valuable tools for their observations and predictions.
In addition to his astronomical pursuits, Bate also made significant contributions to the field of medicine. He authored “Philomena,” a medical textbook that covered a wide range of topics, including anatomy, physiology, diseases, and treatments. This work, influenced by the writings of ancient Greek and Arabic physicians, contributed to the development of medical knowledge in medieval Europe.
Bate’s achievements extended beyond his academic endeavours. He held prestigious positions, such as serving as a personal physician to King Edward II of England. His expertise and reputation earned him recognition and respect among his contemporaries, establishing him as one of the leading scholars of his time.
Nothaft, C. Philipp E. “Henry Bate’s Tabule Machlinenses: The Earliest Astronomical Tables by a Latin Author.” Annals of Science 75.4 (2018): 275–303. Web. ➤
Tabule Machlinenses. Oxford University. ➤
