Bacon, Roger (c.1214-c.1292)

English Franciscan and philosopher. Born in either Somerset or in Gloucestershire, he may have begun his studies in Oxford, but certainly spent some time in Paris. His published works include a series of questions on Aristotle’s metaphysical and physical treatises (c.1240-1246). He also invested heavily, whilst in his thirties, in the study of languages, mathematics and experimental science and was particularly influenced by Robert Grossteste. In 1257 he entered the Franciscan order in a bid to pursue his chosen studies further still. His place in the history of science and religion is hard to assess, as recent scholarship has shown that his work is not as original as once claimed. His knowledge of Arabic and Greek texts and their translation was vast, though it never progressed into any unified or systematic scheme of thought. The real achievement of the man has been lost beneath the veneer of a reputation for magical powers and mechanical invention. The twentieth century has seen attempts to represent him as a martyr of science and freedom of thought, but these have been to no avail.

Related Topics:

History

Contributed by: Richard P Whaite