A Ordem do Universo no Séc. XII: Harmonia e Epistemologia na Tradição Neoplatónica

Abstract

This research aims to understand the order of the universe in the twelfth century. With this purpose, we pretend to study the period known as medieval renaissance proposing a possible contribution of the platonism, examining what it offered in terms of a new epistemology of the universe (universitas), and its law of harmony. The argumentation is supported on the cosmology of the Timaeus, which provided a rational Christian theology — the theology of “measure, number and weight” — as well as a mathematical and proportional view of the cosmos. Nonetheless, this intellectual reading overlaps with mystical speculations which are supported by the doctrines of Pseudo-Dionysius, in his analogies between the Creation and the Trinity. Meanwhile, the demand of divine brands in the order of universe provides a link between microcosm and macrocosm which will benefit analogies between the Church, Christ-Man and the Universe, with a consequent valoration of the human dignity. Indeed, combining mystic and rationality, the twelfth century neoplatonism consists in timaic and dionysian ideals that unfolds a new epistemology of the universe.