[Aware-co] Ined his attention to exploring the star depths and investiga

[Mardirosian Dressler]

 means of the revolution of crystalline spheres alone, but were
accounted for by imagining the existence of a small circle, or epicycle,
whose centre corresponded with a fixed point in the larger circle, or
eccentric, as it was called. This
small circle revolved on its axis when carried round with the larger
one, and round it the planet also revolved, which when situated in its
outer portion would have a forward, and when in its inner portion a
retrograde, motion. The theory of eccentrics and epicycles was
sufficient for a time to account for the inequalities of motion already
described, and by this means the Ptolemaic system was enabled to retain
its ascendency for a longer period than it otherwise would have done.
But more recent discoveries brought to light

discrepancies and difficulties which were explained
away by adding epicycle to epicycle. This created a most complicated
entanglement,
and hastened the downfall of a system which, after an existence of many

centuries, sank into oblivion, and is now remembered as a belief of
bygone ages. The devices which the upholders of this system were
compelled to adopt,

in order 'to save appearances,' with 'centric and eccentric,' cycle and
epicycle, 'orb
in orb,' are in this manner appropriately
described by Milton, as
indicating the confusion arising from a theory based upon false
hypotheses. Continuing his reply, the Angel says:-- Already by thy
reasoning this I guess, Who art
to lead thy offspring, and supposest
That bodies bright and greater should not serve The less not bright, nor
Heaven such journies run, Earth
sitting still, when she alone receives The benefit. Consider, first,
that great Or bright i
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