Meandering in the stacks . . .

Today is the birthday of John Dee (July 13,1527 – 1608/09), mathematician, astronomer, and author. He is oft referred to as a remarkable scholar and an excellent example of a Renaissance Man.

"It is by the straight line and the circle that the first and most simple example and representation of all things may be demonstrated, whether such things be either non-existent or merely hidden under Nature's veils." - John Dee

"There is (gentle reader) nothing (the works of God only set apart) which so much beautifies and adorns the soul and mind of man as does knowledge of the good arts and sciences. Many arts there are which beautify the mind of man; but of all none do more garnish and beautify it than those arts which are called mathematical, unto the knowledge of which no man can attain, without perfect knowledge and instruction of the principles, grounds, and Elements of Geometry." - John Dee

Trivia bit: In his lifetime John Dee amassed the largest library in England and one of the largest in Europe.

Dee image source (1)