New technological methods such as optical coherence tomography (OCT) and infrared hyperspectral imaging have allowed scientists at the University of Pisa to partially decipher the ancient Herculaneum Scrolls, which contain valuable historical treatises from the era of antiquity.
Ancient manuscripts
Revealing the secrets of Herculaneum
A group of researchers from the University of Pisa, using innovative “bionic eye” technology, was able to read about a thousand words from the works of the Epicurean philosopher Philodemus of Gadara, preserved in the charred papyri of Herculaneum. The precious scrolls, the remains of the only classical library to survive the ancient period, were discovered in the 18th century in the "Villa of the Papyri", which once belonged to Julius Caesar's father-in-law.
Technologies against time
Optical coherence tomography and infrared hyperspectral imaging techniques have made it possible to penetrate through the layers charred papyrus and extract fragments of ancient manuscripts invisible to the naked eye. Thus, scientists were able to obtain new information about the life and death of the great philosopher Plato, as well as raise doubts about some historical facts established earlier.
New discoveries about Plato
Study of deciphered passages has clarified details of Plato's last days, indicating that he died of a fever while music was playing nearby. In addition, new evidence casts doubt on the idea that Plato was sold into slavery in Sicily in 387 BC. Most likely, this happened after the capture of Athens by the Spartans on the island of Aegina in 404 BC.
Glossary
- Herculaneum is an ancient Roman city buried during the eruption of Vesuvius in 79 AD.
- Papyrus is a writing material made from the stems of the papyrus plant, used in antiquity.
- Philodemus of Gadara - ancient Greek poet and Epicurean philosopher (c. 110 - c. 40 BC).
- Plato's Academy is an ancient Greek philosophical school founded by Plato in Athens.
- Socrates - ancient Greek philosopher (c. 470 - 399 BC), teacher of Plato.
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Discussion of the topic – The Herculaneum Scrolls Revealed the Mystery of Plato's Burial Place Thanks to the "Bionic Eye"
Researchers at the University of Pisa have used new "bionic eye" technology to decipher the Herculaneum Scrolls, which were discovered in the 18th century but remained unreadable due to their poor condition. This allowed them to find out where the great philosopher Plato was buried.
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Иван
This is amazing news! The ability to finally decipher the Herculaneum Scrolls thanks to modern technology. 👏 I wonder what other secrets they can reveal?
Эмили
I completely agree, Ivan! 🤩 The loss of these ancient texts is a tragedy for all humanity. I hope scientists will be able to decipher other manuscripts.
Жак
Can you imagine how great it is to read the works of ancient thinkers in their own words? 🤯 Perhaps this will allow you to take a fresh look at their ideas and teachings.
Грета
Oh, and the technologies used - optical coherence tomography and infrared hyperspectral imaging - sound fantastic! 🔬 It seems that science does not stand still.
Дмитрий
Old man, do you remember how we worried about lost knowledge? 😩 Now we have a chance to fill these gaps. It's time to update our textbooks!
Рудольф
Pfft, come on! 👺 These are just old scrolls, probably nothing interesting. Why spend so much time and money on excavations?
Марта
But, Rudolf, don't you remember how we studied Plato at university? 📚 His philosophy had a huge impact on the development of Western civilization. Discovering his burial place is a big event!
Пьетро
I agree, this is incredible! 🙌 Imagine how interesting it will be to learn new details from the life of the great philosopher! Perhaps his students described Plato's last days?