Not only scientific theory was condemned as the work of…
““Not only scientific theory was condemned as the work of the devil. The devil also seems to have known a lot more about navigation than the bloodthirsty Men of God. Many (perhaps most) ships sailing the Mediterranean in the Middle Ages had Jewish navigators, for the Christian captains and crews were not supposed to meddle with the devilish science of mathematics. In the 10th century, Raud the Strong, a Viking chieftain, escaped the fanatical Christianizing king of Norway Olaf Trygvasson by sailing into the wind (i.e., maintaining a zig-zag course whose average advances against the wind); the pious king, who was better acquainted with witchcraft than with the triangle of forces, thereupon accused Raud of being in alliance with the devil, and when he finally caught him, he had him killed by stuffing a viper down his throat.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Highlights how medieval Christians blamed mathematics and navigation on the devil, yet relied on Jewish expertise.
In simple terms: Christians feared math but used Jewish navigators.
Key Takeaway
Recognize hidden contributions behind prejudice.
Themes
prejudice
science
history
religion
Mood
critical
reflective
Type
historical
analytical
When to use this quote
- maritime trade
- education
- cultural exchange
- religious conflict
Key Concepts
bias
knowledge transfer
Questions to Reflect On
- What modern fields are similarly stigmatized?
- How can we honor unseen contributors?
A Different Perspective
Simplifies complex historical dynamics.