Reacting to the Size and Shape of the Universe

Mercury, January/February 2001 Table of Contents

As astronomers have changed how humanity has perceived the universe, the great writers and poets have risen to the challenge.

by Chris Impey

So much for the supposed tension between science and art. In this eloquent and inspired essay by astronomer Chris Impey, great science and great literature are shown to walk hand-in-hand. As astronomers overturn existing ideas of the universe, writers and poets respond to the changing reality in the great works of literature. This article clearly explains significant developments in astronomy, physics, and cosmology from the time of the ancient Greeks to the present day. It is also peppered with quotes from some of the great works of literature. Because of the length of this article, the text has been divided in two. The first half appears in the January/February 2001 issue while the second half will appear in the March/April 2001 issue.

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