The philosophical and mathematical commentaries of Proclus on the first book of Euclid's elements (Vol. 1 of 2) : $b To which are added, A history of the restoration of Platonic theology, by the latter Platonists: And a translation from the Greek of Proclus's Theological elements — Plato — John Shaqi
The philosophical and mathematical commentaries of Proclus on the first book of Euclid's elements (Vol. 1 of 2) : $b To which are added, A history of the restoration of Platonic theology, by the latter Platonists: And a translation from the Greek of Proclus's Theological elements
Plato · en
leave him destitute of proper information. In the distribution of
the first book of this work into chapters, I have followed the order
of Barocius, because it is natural and obvious; and must beg leave
to solicit the reader’s indulgence for using the words _partible_
and _impartible_, differently from their common signification. These
words I have generally employed to express the meaning of μεριστός[2]
and αμεριστος[3] in the Greek, as I do not conceive that the words
_divisible_ and _indivisible_ always convey their full signification.
I have likewise used _quadrangle_ instead of square, and _quinquangle_
for the word pentagon. For if τρίγωνος be rendered _triangle_, why
should not τετραγώνος be rendered _quadrangle_? And, as Barocius
observes, why, for a similar reason, should not πεντάγωνος and
ἑξάγωνος be rendered _quinquangle_ and _sexangle_; and so of the rest?
Uniformity is always desirable when it can be obtained; and is no where
so necessary as in scientifical disquisitions.
It is likewise necessary to inform the reader, that though I have
always endeavoured to give the faithful meaning of my Author, yet I
have occasionally paraphrased his sense, when most obscure, and added
such elucidations of my own, as I either thought necessary to the
full comprehension of his matter; or which were naturally excited by
the fire and spirit of the Original. If it shall appear that I have
succeeded in the execution of this work, and rendered it intelligible
to the lovers of truth, I shall rejoice in my success, and consider
my labours sufficiently rewarded. The applause of the multitude I am
neither likely nor desirous to gain; but I am anxious to procure the
approbation of the discerning few, who know that the age of philosophy
is past; and who esteem the works of her ancient heroes as the most
precious treasures which have escaped the ravages of time.
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