What country was the scientist Copernicus from? Copernicus, Nicholas

The teachings of Copernicus revolutionized the consciousness of people of the Middle Ages and became the beginning of the formation of a modern worldview. The religious picture of the world that dominated the Middle Ages began to give way to a scientific one. The works of Copernicus gave impetus to the development of astronomy, mathematics, and physics.

Origin

Copernicus's nationality is not precisely determined: some consider him German by his mother's origin, others consider him a Pole by his place of birth. During the life of the scientist, this issue was not fundamental. IN writing He used German and the universal language of science of that time was Latin.

Childhood

The small homeland of Copernicus is the small town of Torne, which changed its territorial affiliation, becoming either Prussian or Polish. There were four children in the family; the elder brother became Nikolai’s ally and supported him until the end of his life. The Copernican family was wealthy, the children did not need anything. Another plague epidemic brought misfortune: the head of the family died. A few years later, the mother died. Mother's brother saved orphans from poverty dear uncle Lucas, who later became a bishop.

Study and career

My uncle tried to give the best education to his nephews. The Copernicus brothers studied at best universities Europe. The path to education was long; obtaining a diploma and scientific title at 35 – 40 years old. Initial stage The Jagiellonian University in Krakow became the center of Copernicus's education, where from 1491 the future scientist studied art. After 1496, the brothers studied law at the University of Bologna. During this period, Nikolai became interested in astronomy thanks to his communication with Domenico Maria Novara, who taught this subject.

The result of the first observations was doubt in the dogmas of the generally accepted theory of Ptolemy. During this period of his life, Copernicus became interested in painting; his works have survived to this day, the most famous being a self-portrait, preserved as a copy. From 1502, Copernicus and his brother studied medicine and theology at the University of Padua, graduating four years later. Thanks to such a deep education, Nicolaus Copernicus became a comprehensively educated person with encyclopedic knowledge, and the path to science was open.

Under the influence of his uncle, Nikolai chooses a career as a clergyman, combining it with scientific research. First he became a canon, then he became the bishop's adviser and chancellor. His fate became a reflection of the Middle Ages. So, being the chancellor in the city of Olsztyn, he was appointed responsible for the defense of the city from the Teutons and coped with this task brilliantly. Nicolaus Copernicus practiced medicine a lot. During plague epidemics, he did not turn away from danger, but boldly fulfilled his duty.

Love

Copernicus, as a clergyman, could not start a family. There is information that already in mature age he fell in love with his friend's daughter Anna. The girl lived in his house for some time as a relative and au pair, but they still had to separate.

Scientific achievements

1. Heliocentric system
For more than forty years, Copernicus worked on his main discovery, which immortalized his name in the history of mankind. Using primitive instruments, many of which he made himself, and complex mathematical calculations Copernicus refuted the teachings of Ptolemy. He proved that the Earth is one of the planets that revolve around the sun. His theory is still far from the modern understanding of the picture of the world, but it was a decisive step forward. The main work, “On the Rotation of the Celestial Spheres,” was published at the end of the scientist’s life. According to legend, Copernicus saw the first copy of his book before his death. However, real evidence refutes this fact - for several months before his death, the scientist was in a severe coma.

The main provisions of his theory:

• The Earth, like the other planets, moves around the sun.
• The earth rotates around itself, which explains the cycle of day and night.
• Planets move in circular orbits.
• The Earth is the center of gravity of the Moon.
• The sun is motionless.
• The distance between the Earth and the Sun is much less than the distance from the Earth to distant stars.

2. Discoveries in economics. Copernicus proposed a reform monetary system, studied the mechanisms of price formation.

3. Discoveries in mechanics. Created unique car, which supplied the entire city with water.

Death

In 1743, after a stroke, Copernicus died surrounded by loved ones. Nowadays, streets, a university, an airport, a crater, and a planet are named after him. Many monuments have been erected. His profile is immortalized on the Polish banknote. On the main square of the Polish city of Torun there is a monument on which is written: “He who stopped the Sun - who moved the Earth.”

The fate of Nicolaus Copernicus is unique for that time, full of dangers. He boldly faced danger and honestly fulfilled his duty. His achievements were important stage development of all humanity.

Nicolaus Copernicus (Polish: Mikołaj Kopernik, German: Niklas Koppernigk, Latin: Nicolaus Copernicus). Born on February 19, 1473 in Torun - died on May 24, 1543 in Frombork. Polish astronomer, mathematician, mechanic, economist, canon of the Renaissance. Best known as the author heliocentric system world, which marked the beginning of the first scientific revolution.

Born in Torun into a merchant family, he lost his parents early. Torun became part of Poland just a few years before the birth of Copernicus; before that, the city bore the name Thorn and was part of Prussia, which belonged to the Teutonic Order.

The question of Copernicus's ethnicity still remains the subject of a (rather unpromising) debate. His mother was German (Barbara Watzenrode), his father's nationality is unclear, but it is known that he was a native of Krakow. Thus, ethnically Copernicus was German or half-German, although he himself may have considered himself a Pole (by territorial and political affiliation). He wrote in Latin and German, not a single document in Polish language, written in his hand, was not found; after early death father, he was raised in a German family by his mother and uncle. Niccolo Komneno Popadopoli spread an unproven - and, according to modern historians, invented by himself - story that Copernicus allegedly enrolled at the University of Padua as a Pole. It should be noted that the concept of nationality in those years was much more blurred than it is today, and some historians suggest that Copernicus be considered a Pole and a German at the same time.

In the Copernicus family, besides Nicholas, there were three more children: Andrei, later a canon in Warmia, and two sisters: Barbara and Katerina. Barbara went into a convent, and Katerina married and gave birth to five children, to whom Nicolaus Copernicus was very attached and cared for them until the end of his life.

Having lost his father as a 9-year-old child and remaining in the care of his maternal uncle, Canon Lukasz Watzenrode, Copernicus entered the University of Krakow in 1491, where he studied mathematics, medicine and theology with equal zeal, but he was especially attracted to astronomy.

Upon graduation from the university (1494), Copernicus did not receive any academic title, and family council decided that he had a spiritual career ahead of him. A strong argument in favor of this choice was that the patron uncle had just been elevated to the rank of bishop.

To continue his education, Copernicus went to Italy (1497) and entered the University of Bologna. In addition to theology, law and ancient languages, he had the opportunity to study astronomy there. It is interesting to note that one of the professors in Bologna was then Scipio del Ferro, with whose discoveries the revival of European mathematics began. Meanwhile, thanks to the efforts of his uncle, in Poland Copernicus was elected in absentia as a canon in the diocese of Warmia.

In 1500, Copernicus left the university, again without receiving any diploma or title, and went to Rome. Rheticus' memoirs say that Copernicus taught a number of disciplines at the Roman university, including astronomy, but other biographers question this fact. Then, after a short stay in his homeland, he went to the University of Padua and continued studying medicine.

In 1503, Copernicus finally completed his education, passed the exams in Ferrara, received a diploma and academic degree Doctor of Canon Law. He was in no hurry to return and, with the permission of his uncle-bishop, spent the next three years practicing medicine in Padua.

In 1506, Copernicus received news, perhaps far-fetched, of his uncle's illness. He left Italy and returned to his homeland. He spent the next 6 years at the episcopal castle of Heilsberg, engaged in astronomical observations and teaching in Krakow. At the same time, he is a doctor, secretary and confidant of Uncle Lukash.

In 1512, the uncle-bishop died. Copernicus moved to Frombork, a small town on the shores of the Vistula Lagoon, where he had been listed as a canon all this time, and began his spiritual duties. However, he did not give up scientific research. The northwestern tower of the fortress became an observatory.

Already in the 1500s, the idea of ​​a new astronomical system was quite clear to him. He began to write a book describing a new model of the world, discussing his ideas with friends, among whom were many of his like-minded people (for example, Tiedemann Giese, Bishop of Kulm). During these years (ca. 1503-1512), Copernicus circulated a handwritten summary of his theory among friends ("Small Commentary on the Hypotheses Relating to the Celestial Motions"), and his student Rheticus published a clear exposition of the heliocentric system in 1539. Apparently, rumors of the new theory were already widespread in the 1520s. Working on the main task - "On the rotation of the celestial spheres"- lasted almost 40 years, Copernicus constantly introduced clarifications into it, prepared new astronomical calculation tables.

Rumors about a new outstanding astronomer were spreading in Europe. There is a version, not supported by documents, that Pope Leo X invited Copernicus to take part in the preparation of the calendar reform (1514, implemented only in 1582), but he politely refused.

When necessary, Copernicus devoted his energies and practical work: according to his project, a new coin system was introduced in Poland, and in the city of Frombork he built a hydraulic machine that supplied water to all houses. Personally, as a doctor, he was involved in the fight against the plague epidemic of 1519. During the Polish-Teutonic War (1519-1521) he organized the successful defense of the bishopric from the Teutons. At the end of the conflict, Copernicus took part in peace negotiations (1525), which ended with the creation of the first Protestant state on the order lands - the Duchy of Prussia, a vassal of the Polish crown.

In 1531, 58-year-old Copernicus retired and concentrated on finishing his book. At the same time, he practiced medicine (free of charge). The faithful Rheticus constantly worked for the speedy publication of Copernicus's work, but progress was slow. Fearing that the obstacles would prove insurmountable, Copernicus circulated among his friends short summary his work entitled “Small Commentary” (Commentariolus). In 1542, the scientist’s condition deteriorated significantly, and paralysis of the right half of the body occurred.

Copernicus died on May 24, 1543 at the age of 70 from a stroke. Some biographers (for example, Tiedemann Giese) claim that the author managed to see his work published shortly before his death. But others argue that this was impossible, since recent months During his life, Copernicus was in a severe coma.

The book of Copernicus has remained as an outstanding monument to human thought.

The location of Copernicus's tomb is very long time remained unknown, but during excavations at Frombork Cathedral in 2005, a skull and leg bones were discovered. A comparative DNA analysis of these remains and two hairs of Copernicus, found in one of his books, confirmed that the remains of Copernicus were found.

On May 20, 2010, the reburial ceremony for the remains of Nicolaus Copernicus began. On May 21, the coffin was taken to Frombork Cathedral, where Copernicus made his most important discoveries. On the way to Frombork, the coffin passed through several cities of the Warmian-Masurian Voivodeship - Dobre Miasto, Lidzbark Warminski, Orneta, Pienierzno and Braniewo, with which Copernicus was associated in the course of his activities. On May 22, 2010, the remains of the great scientist were buried in Frombork Cathedral. The solemn ceremony was performed by the Primate of Poland, Archbishop of Gniezno Józef Kowalczyk. The burial of the remains was also timed to coincide with the celebration of the 750th anniversary of the city.

It is impossible to say for sure who Copernicus is. It is believed that he is a theorist, astronomer, and humanist who lived from 1473 to 1543. He is the supposed creator of the modern theory of planetary structure, according to which the Sun is at the center. However, information about his life and work is very contradictory, which does not allow us to unambiguously answer the question: “Who is Copernicus?” There is a high probability that it was a dummy. The name Copernicus could also refer to a whole group of innovators in the field of astronomy who were hiding from persecution. However, we will present official biography this scientist. You will find out who Copernicus is, according to the most common version. Sometimes there are several popular versions, and then we will present them all.

Date of birth, origin of Copernicus

Nicolaus Copernicus, according to Polish historians of the 19th century, was born in 1473, on February 2. This event took place in the Prussian city of Torn (modern Toruń, Poland). According to astrological calculations by the teacher of Galileo and Kepler (M. Maestlin), he was born at 4:48 am. pm February 19, 1473. It is this date that is repeated by most scientific sources of our time.

The father of the future scientist is his namesake. There are many versions of who Copernicus the Elder was and what he did. He was either a merchant, a peasant, a doctor, a brewer, or a baker. This man came from Krakow to Toruń around 1460. In Toruń, Nikolai's father became a respected man. He served for many years as an elected city judge. In addition, he was the bearer of the honorary title of “brother tertiary” (a lay assistant to the monks belonging to this order).

What does the name Copernicus mean?

It is impossible to say exactly what the surname Copernicus means, but historians believe that distant ancestors in the family of Nicholas were copper traders (copper in Latin is “cuprum”). Another version is that the surname comes from the names of villages in Silesia that have the same name. Presumably they got their name from the dill that grew in the area (in Polish, dill is "koper"). However, the exact location of these villages is unknown. Polish historians first discovered this surname in Krakow documents dating back to 1367. It is known that later its bearers were artisans of various professions, including coppersmiths, stonemasons, gunsmiths, bathhouse attendants, and watchmen.

The fate of Nikolai's relatives

Nicolaus Copernicus Sr. married Varvara Watzenrode, daughter of the chairman of the court, in Toruń. It is believed that the wedding took place before 1463. Four children were born into the family. Nikolai was the youngest of them.

In Poland, even today they indicate the house where Nicolaus Copernicus was allegedly born, whose biography interests us. This building, shown in the photo below, became an object of pilgrimage for many Poles at the end of the 18th century. Its plaster and bricks are national relics that are kept in museums.

Children in the Copernican family studied at hometown where they received a good education. Andrei, the elder brother, born around 1464, accompanied Nicholas everywhere almost until his death (he died in 1518 or 1519). He helped him in his studies and religious career. In 1512, Andrei fell ill with leprosy, and A. Copernicus died a few years later. Let's briefly talk about the fate of our hero's sisters. The first, Varvara, was tonsured a monk in Kulm. She died around 1517. And Catherine went to Krakow with her husband, merchant Bartholomew Gertner. After this, her traces are lost. What about our hero, Nicolaus Copernicus? His biography and discoveries are worthy of detailed study. First we will talk about life path Nicolaus Copernicus, and then - about his achievements.

Death of parents, care of uncle

In 1483, Nicholas's father died from a transient illness (presumably the plague). The mother died in 1489. After her death, Luka Watzenrode, her mother’s brother (pictured below), took care of the family. He was a canon of the local diocese, and after some time became its bishop. This man was educated for that time. He was a master of Krakow and also a doctor at another university - Bologna.

Training of brothers Nikolai and Andrey

Soon Andrei and Nicolaus Copernicus followed in the footsteps of their uncle. The biography of our hero continues with a long period of training. After graduating from the city school (around 1491), the brothers went to the Jagiellonian University. Nikolai and Andrey chose the Faculty of Liberal Arts. In that educational institution they joined the humanism that was spreading at that time. The university supposedly even preserved a certificate indicating payment for tuition (for 1491) by Nicolaus Copernicus. After studying Latin, astronomy, mathematics and other sciences for 3 years, the brothers decided to leave Krakow without receiving a diploma. Perhaps they made this decision because the scholastic party, whose representatives belonged to the Hungarian community, won at the university in 1494.

Brothers are chosen to become canons

Andrei and Nikolai intended to continue their studies in Italy. However, my uncle, who by this time had become the Bishop of Ermeland, did not have extra funds for this. He advised his nephews to take the places of canons (members of the government chapter) in the diocese subordinate to him in order to receive the salary necessary for long travel and study abroad. However, this plan was not implemented immediately - it was prevented by the brothers’ lack of diplomas. Even strong protection did not help. Nevertheless, the brothers nevertheless went to study as lawyers at the University of Bologna in 1496. They were elected in absentia to the positions of canons in 1487, with the provision of a salary, as well as a 3-year leave to continue their education.

Continuation of studies at the University of Bologna

He studied not only law, but also astronomy scientist Nikolai Copernicus. His biography of this time is marked by his acquaintance with Dominic Maria di Navar. This is a teacher at the University of Bologna, famous astrologer that time. Copernicus, whose biography can only be reconstructed on the basis of indirect sources, in his future book allegedly mentions the astronomical observations that he jointly carried out with his teacher. At the University of Bologna, Nikolai learned and Greek language, which was quite popular among humanists, but aroused suspicions of heresy from Catholic scholastics. In addition, he fell in love with painting - a painting has been preserved, which is considered a copy of a self-portrait made by Copernicus.

Lectures in Rome, studying medicine

The brothers studied in Bologna for 3 years, again without receiving a diploma. According to historians, for a short time Nicholas worked as a mathematics teacher in Rome, at the same time giving astronomical lectures to Alexander VI Borgia, the Pope, as well as Italian scientists. However, there is no evidence for this opinion.

The brothers returned to a short time to Frauenburg, to the place of duty. They wanted to ask for a deferment to continue their studies. Having received it, the brothers went to study medicine at the University of Padua. They remained here until 1506 and again did not receive a diploma. However, in 1503, the brothers passed external examinations at the University of Ferrara and became doctors of law.

Return to homeland, service with the bishop

The Copernicians returned to their homeland in 1506 after completing their studies. By this time Nikolai was already 33 years old, and Andrei was 42. At that time, receiving diplomas at this age was considered normal. Moreover, many scientists recognized in the scientific community (for example, G. Gallileo) did not have diplomas. This did not prevent all of them from receiving professorships.

Nicolaus Copernicus, after a year of service as a canon in Frombork, became an adviser to the bishop (his uncle), and then the chancellor of the diocese. He helped his relative fight the Teutonic Order, which was headed in 1511 by Albrecht von Hohenzollern, his future renegade. Nicholas also helped in negotiating with Sigismund I, the Polish king, who was Albrecht's uncle. It is believed that Luka Watzelrode wanted to make Nicholas his successor. However, he did not have sufficient activity and ambition for this kind of activity.

Moving to Fraenburg

Copernicus began to create at this time astronomical theory. In February 1512, Bishop Luke Watzelrode died. From this time on, the Copernican sinecure ends. The bishop's chair is occupied by Fabian Losainen, a classmate of the brothers at the University of Bologna. Nikolai has to leave Lidzbarg. N. Copernicus returns to Frauenburg, where he becomes a canon of the cathedral. Tiedemann Giese, his supporter and friend, becomes chancellor of the diocese. However, Nikolai’s duties do not yet burden him much. He was in charge of economic affairs and tax collection. Around this time, his brother Andrei falls ill with leprosy and decides to leave for Italy.

Copernicus becomes famous

Copernicus continues his studies in astronomy. The scientist allegedly gained fame in this field at the end of the 15th century. His lectures became very popular, they were attended by Alexander VI Borgia, as well as Nicholas da Vinci. Historians note that Pope Leo X in 1514 asked the scientist what he thought about calendar reform. Nicolaus Copernicus expressed his opinion in a letter to Paul of Middelburg, the papal curator of the matter. He advised to postpone this idea for a while, until he completed the creation of his theory (on which, by the way, Copernicus worked for 30 years). However, no written evidence has been found to prove this.

Nicolaus Copernicus was elected in the fall of 1516 to replace Tiedemann Giese. He becomes the manager of the southern possessions belonging to the Warmia diocese. And from that time on Giese held the position of bishop of Kulm. Due to his new appointment, Copernicus moved to Olsztyn for 4 years. Here he is forced to take up military craft - the troops of the Teutonic Order attack Warmia and capture part of it. And one day they even besieged the residence of Copernicus himself. Nicholas returns to Frombork in 1521, after peace was concluded with the Teutonic Order.

First treatise, proposals for monetary reform

It is believed that it was then that he created his first treatise called “Small Commentary”. This essay made his theory known in a narrow circle. Copernicus's proposals for monetary reform in Prussia date back to 1528. It was then that he presented them at the Elbląg Sejm.

The charge brought against Copernicus

After the death of Ferber in 1537, Johann Dantiscus, a former humanist and epicurean, became the bishop of Warmia. Subsequently, he became a hypocrite and a retrograde, and it was thanks to this that he made a religious career. Copernicus' reign brought a lot of grief and trouble. The dentist allegedly accused Nicholas of immoral cohabitation with Anna Schilling, a married housekeeper. The woman was allegedly forbidden by a special decree from the bishop to appear in Frombork, since this dangerous person had seduced the “venerable astronomer.”

Last years of life, death

I. Rheticus came to Copernicus in 1539 to study his theory. After some time, he published a book where he presented new theory, and then published his teacher’s book.

Copernicus died on May 24, 1543. Death occurred after a stroke and the resulting paralysis of the right half of the body. In 1655, Pierre Gassendi wrote a biography, according to which his friends placed the original of his book into the cold hands of Copernicus. Nicholas, according to modern historians, was buried in Frombork Cathedral (his photo is presented above). In 1581, a portrait was installed opposite his grave, and near the cathedral there is a monument to Nicholas.

Acts of Nicholas

N. Copernicus is known primarily as the creator of the heliocentric theory. However, he is also credited with many other activities typical of gifted and highly educated humanists of the time. Let us briefly describe the main discoveries of Copernicus.

Translation from Greek

In 1509, Nicholas, who was fluent in Greek, translated a work from the 6th or 7th century into Latin. BC e. "Moral, rural and love letters of Theophylact Simocatta, scholasticism." It is believed that the creator of this work was the last historian who belongs to the ancient tradition. Unfortunately, it is not known whether this translation was published, but its text is known. It is interesting that historians report that this correspondence with historical and mythical figures is filled with anachronisms and does not represent anything outstanding. However, for some reason, even the “boring” “rubbish” delighted Copernicus and inspired Nicholas to translate. He dedicated his work to his uncle. In addition, the heirs of Nicholas's cause published other works of Theophylact Scholasticus.

Cartography classes

And in this area Copernicus left his mark. He created a map of Prussia, which, unfortunately, has not survived. Using a self-made parallax ruler from fir cones, Nicholas determined with an accuracy of 3" the latitude of Frauenburg. These sticks, called "triquetra", are today in the University of Krakow. According to historians, at the end of the 16th century, this precious relic was given to John Hanovius, the Bishop of Warmia, by Tycho Brahe through Elias Olai Cimber, a student of the latter.

Other activities of Copernicus

During the period of control of the lands of Warmia (from 1516 to 1520), Nicolaus Copernicus mastered the craft of a commander, military engineer and administrator. His activities public finance date back to the end of the 1520s. In addition, they write that Nikolai was a famous doctor who treated artisans and peasants for free. Copernicus' discoveries allegedly even included his invention of the sandwich.

"Small comment"

Three essays present the astronomical works of Nicolaus Copernicus. Two of them were published only in the 19th century. The first essay is “Small Commentary,” which briefly outlines Nicholas’s theory. A copy of this manuscript was found in the Vienna Court Library in 1877 or 1878. And a few years later, in 1881, the same notebook with notes from Copernicus himself was discovered. It consists of 16 sheets and was found at Uppsala University, in its library. However, it is sometimes reported that it was discovered in Stockholm.

"The Epistle of Copernicus against Werner" and "On the Revolutions of the Celestial Spheres"

"The Epistle of Copernicus against Werner" is the second most recent work of Nicholas on astronomy. This is his letter to Bernard Wapowski, rector of the Krakow Cathedral. The work is doubly interesting, since it presents the author’s chronological reasoning, which is based on an analysis of the precession of stars in accordance with medieval and ancient sources. In 1543, Copernicus's main book, On the Revolutions of the Celestial Spheres, was published. The place of publication of this work is either Regensburg or Nuremberg. It contains the results of the author's observations, as well as a catalog of 1025 stars, compiled by him personally.

Copernican theory

The ideas of this scientist were very bold for their time. The world of Copernicus was radically different from the generally accepted views of his predecessors and contemporaries. Nicholas discarded the geocentric one that Ptolemy created. This was a bold move at the time, as the model was rarely questioned. She was supported by a very influential woman at the time. Catholic Church. According to it, the center of the universe is the Earth, and the Sun, the sphere of fixed stars and all the planets revolve around it. The heliocentric system of Copernicus radically diverged from this idea. The scientist believed that the Earth, like other planets, moves around the Sun. Nikolai noted that the movement of the sky that we observe during the day is a consequence of the movement of our planet around its axis. Copernicus' discoveries were presented in his work “On the Revolutions of the Celestial Spheres,” which was published in the year of his death. The book was banned by the Catholic Church in 1616. Nevertheless, new ideas steadily made their way. The discovery made by Nikolai gave a powerful impetus to natural science. Many scientists subsequently turned to him.

So, we have outlined the biography and discoveries of Nicolaus Copernicus briefly. As you understand, there is only a certain degree of probability that certain facts from his life are true. Reconstructing the biography of people who lived long before us is always difficult. However, we have tried to present the most probable information about such a person as Copernicus. His biography and his discoveries are still the subject of study by historians. Perhaps after some time they will be able to obtain more accurate information.

(1473-1543) Polish astronomer

Nicolaus Copernicus was born in the Polish city of Toruń into the family of a merchant who came from Germany. He was orphaned at an early age and raised in the house of his uncle, the famous Polish humanist Bishop Lukasz Wachenrode. In 1490, he graduated from the University of Krakow and became a canon of the cathedral in Frombork, a fishing town at the mouth of the Vistula. He remained in this position (with interruptions) until the end of his life.

In 1496, Copernicus went on a long journey to Italy. He first studied at the University of Bologna, where he became a Master of Arts and also studied ecclesiastical law. It was in Bologna that he developed an interest in astronomy, which determined his scientific destiny.

He then returned to Poland for a short time, but soon returned to Italy, where he studied medicine at the University of Padua and received a doctorate in theology from the University of Ferrara. Nicolaus Copernicus returned to his homeland in 1503 as a comprehensively educated man. He settled first in the city of Lidzbark, where he served as a secretary and doctor for his uncle, and after his death he moved to Frombork, where he lived until the end of his life.

Nicolaus Copernicus was an amazingly versatile scientist. Simultaneously with his studies in astronomy, he was engaged in translations of works of Byzantine authors, as well as medicine, earning a reputation as a wonderful doctor. Copernicus treated the poor for free: day and night he was ready to rush to the aid of the sick. In addition, he participated in the management of the region and was in charge of its financial and economic affairs. But most of all he was interested in astronomy, which he presented somewhat differently than was customary.

By that time, the system of the world structure proposed by the ancient Greek scientist Claudius Ptolemy had existed for almost one and a half millennia. It consisted in the fact that the Earth rests motionless in the center of the Universe, and the Sun and other planets revolve around it. Ptolemy's theory did not explain many phenomena well known to astronomers, in particular the loop-like movement of planets across the visible sky. Nevertheless, its provisions were considered unshakable, since they were in good agreement with the teachings of the Catholic Church.

Long before Copernicus, the ancient Greek scientist Aristarchus argued that the Earth moves around the Sun. But he could not yet experimentally confirm his teaching.

Observing the movement of celestial bodies, Nicolaus Copernicus came to the conclusion that Ptolemy’s theory was incorrect. After thirty years of hard work, long observations and complex mathematical calculations, he convincingly proved that the Earth is only one of the planets and that all planets revolve around the Sun. True, Copernicus still believed that the stars are motionless and are located on the surface of a huge sphere, at a great distance from the Earth. This was due to the fact that at that time there were no such powerful telescopes with which one could observe the sky and stars.

Having discovered that the Earth and the planets are satellites of the Sun, Nicolaus Copernicus was able to explain the apparent movement of the Sun across the sky, the strange entanglement in the movement of some planets, as well as the apparent rotation of the sky. He believed that we perceive the movement of celestial bodies in the same way as the movement various items on Earth when we ourselves are in motion. When we are sailing in a boat on the surface of a river, it seems that the boat and we are motionless in it, and the banks are floating in the opposite direction. In the same way, to an observer on Earth, it seems that the Earth is motionless, and the Sun is moving around it. In fact, it is the Earth that moves around the Sun and makes a full revolution in its orbit during the year.

Sometime between 1510 and 1514 Nicolaus Copernicus wrote short message, in which he first informed scientists about his discovery. It created the impression of a bomb exploding and became the cause of misfortune not only for its author, but also for his followers. To accept such a theory meant destroying the authority of the church, since this concept refuted the theory of the divine origin of the Universe.

Copernicus's theory was fully expounded in his work “On the Revolutions of the Celestial Spheres.” The author did not live to see this book spread throughout the world. He was dying when friends brought him the first copy of his book, printed in one of the Nuremberg printing houses. His book aroused interest among progressive-minded scientists.

Church leaders did not immediately understand the blow to religion that Copernicus’ book dealt. For some time his work was freely distributed among scientists. Only when Nicolaus Copernicus had followers was his teaching declared heresy, and the book included in the “Index of Prohibited Books.” Only in 1835 did the Pope exclude the book of Copernicus from this index and thereby, as it were, acknowledge the existence of his teaching in the eyes of the church.

In 1600, the Italian scientist Giordano Bruno was burned at the stake for promoting the views of Copernicus. But this could not stop the development of science.

Soon after the death of Nicolaus Copernicus, the Italian astronomer Galileo Galilei established that the Sun also rotates around its axis, which confirmed the correctness of the Polish scientist’s conclusions.

It is obvious that the patterns discovered by Copernicus contributed to the further development of astronomy, in which more and more new discoveries are still being made.

Name: Nicolaus Copernicus

Age: 70 years old

Activity: astronomer, mathematician, mechanic, economist, Renaissance canon

Family status: wasn't married

Nicolaus Copernicus: biography

Nicolaus Copernicus is an outstanding Polish astronomer of the Renaissance, mathematician, theologian, and physician. The scientist refuted the theory put forward by the ancient Greeks, according to which the planets and the Sun revolve around the Earth, created and substantiated a new, heliocentric theory of the world order.

Nicolaus Copernicus was the fourth child in the family of a German woman, Barbara Watzenrode, and Nicolaus Copernicus, a merchant from Krakow. Over time, the borders of states and names have changed repeatedly, so the question of where, in what country the scientist was born, often arises. This happened in the Prussian city of Thorn on February 19, 1473. Today the town is called Toruń and is located on the territory of modern Poland.

Nicholas had two older sisters, one later became a nun, and the other got married and left the city. The elder brother Andrzej became Nikolai's faithful comrade-in-arms and companion. Together they traveled half of Europe, studying at the best universities.

The Copernicians lived in prosperity and prosperity as long as the father of the family was alive. When Nicholas was nine years old, a plague epidemic broke out in Europe, claiming tens of thousands of lives. Became a victim terrible disease and Copernicus the Elder, and a few years later, in 1489, his mother also died. The family was left without a livelihood, and the children were orphans. Everything could have ended badly if not for Barbara’s uncle, Lukasz Watzenrode, a canon of the local diocese.

Being an educated man at that time, Luke had a master's degree from the Jagiellonian University in Krakow and a doctorate in canon law from the University of Bologna, and subsequently served as a bishop. Luke took care of the children deceased sister and tried to educate Nikolai and Andrzej.

After graduation Nikolai local school In 1491, the brothers, under the patronage and funds of their uncle, went to Krakow, where they entered the Jagiellonian University to study at the Faculty of Arts. This event marked the beginning of a new stage in the biography of Copernicus, the first on the path to future great discoveries in science and philosophy.

The science

After graduating from the University of Krakow in 1496, the Copernicus brothers set off on a trip to Italy. Funds for the trip were initially planned to be obtained from his uncle, the Bishop of Emerland, but he did not have any free money. Luke invited his nephews to become canons of his own diocese and use the salary they received to go study abroad. In 1487, Andrzej and Nicholas were accepted into the position of canons in absentia, with a salary paid in advance and a three-year leave for study.

The brothers entered the University of Bologna at the Faculty of Law, where they studied church canon law. In Bologna, fate brought Nicholas together with an astronomy teacher, Domenico Maria Novara, and this meeting became decisive for the young Copernicus.

Together with Novara in 1497, the future scientist made the first astronomical observation in his life. The result was the conclusion that the distance to the Moon is the same in quadrature, during the new moon and the full moon. This observation first made Copernicus doubt the truth of the theory that all celestial bodies revolve around the Earth.

In addition to studying works on law, mathematics and astronomy in Bologna, Nikolai studied Greek and was fond of painting. A painting that is considered a copy of Copernicus’s self-portrait has survived to this day.

After studying in Bologna for three years, the brothers left the university and returned to their homeland in Poland for some time. In the city of Frauenburg, at the place of service, Copernicus asked for a deferment and a few more years to continue his studies. According to some reports, during this period Nicholas lived in Rome and gave lectures on mathematics to noble dignitaries from high society, and Borgia helped Pope Alexander VI master the laws of astronomy.

In 1502, the Copernicus brothers arrived in Padua. At the University of Padua, Nikolai acquired fundamental knowledge and practical experience in medicine, and received a doctorate in theology from the University of Ferrara. As a result of this extensive study, Copernicus returned home in 1506 as a well-rounded adult.

"Copernicus. Conversation with God." Artist Jan Matejko

By the time they returned to Poland, Nikolai was already 33 years old, and his brother Andrzej was 42 years old. At that time, this age was considered generally accepted for obtaining university diplomas and completing education.

Copernicus' further activities were connected with his position as canon. A brilliant scientist managed to make a career as a clergyman, while simultaneously studying scientific research. He was lucky that his works were completed only at the end of his life, and his books were published after his death.

Copernicus happily escaped the persecution of the church for his radical views and the teaching of the heliocentric system, which his successors and successors failed to do. After the death of Copernicus, the scientist’s main ideas, reflected in the work “On the Rotations of the Celestial Spheres,” spread unhindered throughout Europe and the world. It was not until 1616 that this theory was declared heresy and banned by the Catholic Church.

Heliocentric system

Nicolaus Copernicus was one of the first to think about the imperfection of the Ptolemaic system of the universe, according to which the Sun and other planets revolve around the Earth. Using primitive astronomical instruments, partly homemade, the scientist was able to derive and substantiate the theory of heliocentric solar system.

At the same time, Copernicus, until the end of his life, believed that distant stars and luminaries visible from the Earth were fixed on a special sphere surrounding our planet. This misconception was caused by imperfection technical means of that time, because in Renaissance Europe there was not even a simple telescope. Some details of Copernicus's theory, in which the ancient Greek astronomers were of the opinion, were subsequently eliminated and refined by Johannes Kepler.

The main work of the scientist’s entire life was the fruit of thirty years of work and was published in 1543 with the participation of Copernicus’s favorite student, Rheticus. The astronomer himself had the good fortune of holding the published book in his hands on the eve of his death.

The work dedicated to Pope Paul III was divided into six parts. The first part talked about the sphericity of the Earth and the entire universe, the second told about the basics of spherical astronomy and the rules for calculating the location of stars and planets in the firmament. The third part of the book is devoted to the nature of the equinoxes, the fourth - to the Moon, the fifth - to all planets, the sixth - to the reasons for changes in latitudes.

The teachings of Copernicus are a great contribution to the development of astronomy and the science of the universe.

Personal life

From 1506 to 1512, during his uncle’s lifetime, Nicholas served as a canon in Frombork, then became an adviser to the bishop, and then the chancellor of the diocese. After the death of Bishop Luke, Nikolai moves to Fraenburg and becomes a canon of the local cathedral, and his brother, who fell ill with leprosy, leaves the country.

In 1516, Copernicus received the post of chancellor of the Warmia diocese and moved to the city of Olsztyn for four years. Here the scientist was caught in the war that Prussia waged with the knights of the Teutonic Order. The cleric showed himself to be a surprisingly competent military strategist, managing to ensure proper defense and protection of the fortress, which withstood the onslaught of the Teutons.

In 1521 Copernicus returned to Frombrok. He practiced medicine and was known as a skilled healer. According to some reports, Nicolaus Copernicus relieved illnesses and alleviated the lot of many sick people, mostly his fellow canons.

In 1528, in his declining years, the astronomer fell in love for the first time. The scientist’s chosen one turned out to be a young girl, Anna, the daughter of Copernicus’s friend, metal carver Matz Schilling. The acquaintance took place in the scientist’s hometown, Toruń. Since Catholic clergy were forbidden to marry or have relationships with women, Copernicus settled Anna with him as a distant relative and housekeeper.

However, soon the girl had to leave first from the scientist’s house, and then completely leave the city, since the new bishop made it clear to his subordinate that the church did not welcome this state of affairs.

Death

In 1542, Copernicus's book On the Sides and Angles of Triangles, Both Plane and Spherical, was published in Wittenberg. The main work was published in Nuremberg a year later. The scientist was dying when his students and friends brought the first printed copy of the book “On the Rotation of the Celestial Spheres.” The great astronomer and mathematician died at home in Frombork, surrounded by loved ones on May 24, 1543.

Copernicus's posthumous fame corresponds to the merits and achievements of the scientist. Thanks to portraits and photographs, the astronomer’s face is known to every schoolchild, monuments stand in different cities and countries, and Nicolaus Copernicus University in Poland is named in his honor.

Copernicus's discoveries

• creation and substantiation of the theory of the heliocentric system of the world, which marked the beginning of the first scientific revolution;
• development of a new coinage system in Poland;
• construction of a hydraulic machine that supplied water to all houses in the city;
• co-author of the Copernican-Gresham economic law;
• calculation of real planetary motion.