Dál a dál za Herkulovy sloupy - Přírodní tajemství Nového světa a španělská renesanční filosofie a věda – Černá Jana (2016)

The Pillars of Hercules, behind which, according to Plato, the mythical Atlantis once lay, have represented a symbol of geographical and cognitive limits since ancient times: they were considered the furthest western boundary of seafaring, beyond which humans should not venture. The desire to sail further was seen as an inappropriate curiosity and an illegitimate attempt to cross boundaries set for humanity. However, with the discovery of America, the Pillars of Hercules transformed into an embodiment of new self-confidence and the desire to push further and further (plus ultra, más allá). Distant maritime voyages opened up to Europeans a rich world of remarkable knowledge that attracted the attention of philosophers, scientists, magicians, and 'professors of secrets.' Intellectual curiosity ceased to be viewed as a vice and, in connection with the exploration of the New World, became legitimate and even desirable. The radical novelty of the natural world also implied the necessity of a critical stance towards traditional authorities and strengthened the self-confidence of modern man, convinced that he could seize and uncover even the most hidden secrets of nature. In the Ibero-American intellectual world, knowledge emerged that exhibited traits generally considered defining for the genesis of modern science. The intention...