Cushion : Maps / World / Eratosthenes

EDITORS COMMENTS

This image brings to life the world as it was known to the ancient Greek scholar Eratosthenes around 240 BC. Eratosthenes, a renowned mathematician and geographer, is celebrated for his groundbreaking contributions to the study of geography and the measurement of the Earth's size. In this evocative print from Mary Evans Picture Library, we see a beautifully detailed representation of the known world during Eratosthenes' time. The map, which is believed to be based on the works of the Greek cartographer Ptolemy, features the Mediterranean Sea at its center, surrounded by Europe, Africa, and Asia. The Nile River, the longest river in the ancient world, winds its way through the African continent, while the Red Sea and the Indian Ocean are also depicted. Eratosthenes' map is significant because it represents a major step forward in the history of cartography. Prior to his work, the world was believed to be flat, and maps were little more than rough sketches of the lands and seas known to the ancient civilizations. Eratosthenes, however, used simple yet ingenious methods to calculate the Earth's circumference with remarkable accuracy, and his map reflects a more accurate understanding of the world's geography. This print serves as a reminder of the incredible achievements of ancient scholars like Eratosthenes, whose curiosity and intellect paved the way for the scientific discoveries and advancements that have shaped our understanding of the world. It is a testament to the power of human curiosity and the enduring allure of the unknown, and a reminder of the importance of continuing to explore and learn about the world around us.