Isidore of Seville's Etymological Journey

This chapter examines Isidore of Seville's unfinished magnum opus, the Etymologies, highlighting his ambitious yet incomplete endeavor to document the origins of words and concepts. It focuses on his method of linking Latin to Greek terms, providing insights into natural phenomena and cultural practices while acknowledging the limitations of his 7th-century scientific knowledge. Through detailed analysis of specific entries, the chapter showcases Isidore's creative interpretations and the challenges he faced in tracing etymologies, revealing the intricate relationship between language, knowledge, and whimsy.