Inventing the Flat Earth: Columbus and Modern Historians : Book Review

In his meticulously researched and thought-provoking book, "Inventing the Flat Earth," Jeffrey Burton Russell challenges the commonly held belief that people in the Middle Ages believed in a flat Earth. Drawing from extensive historical and scientific evidence, Russell convincingly argues that the idea of a flat Earth during this time period is actually a misrepresentation perpetuated by 19th-century historians and popular culture.

Russell begins by examining the cosmologies of ancient and medieval scholars, demonstrating that the prevailing belief was in a spherical Earth. He presents a wealth of evidence from the writings of prominent ancient Greek and Roman thinkers, as well as references in medieval texts, to support this view. Through his meticulous research, Russell effectively overturns the notion that belief in a flat Earth was widespread during the Middle Ages.

The author also delves into the motivations behind the promotion of the flat Earth myth. He reveals how this distortion of history served as a tool to discredit religious faith and to portray medieval Europeans as ignorant and superstitious. By exposing this agenda, Russell not only challenges false stereotypes but also sheds light on the intellectual achievements of the time.

What makes "Inventing the Flat Earth" particularly compelling is Russell's clear and engaging writing style. He successfully makes complex historical and scientific concepts accessible to the reader, allowing them to fully grasp the evidence and arguments presented. Moreover, the extensive research and evidence provided throughout the book offer a convincing case against the flat Earth myth.

Beyond dispelling the misconception about the Middle Ages, "Inventing the Flat Earth" prompts readers to reconsider other widely accepted historical misinterpretations. Russell's objective approach encourages critical thinking and fosters a greater understanding of the power of myth-making in shaping our collective understanding of the world.

What are readers saying?

Jeffrey Burton Russell's book, "Inventing the Flat Earth: Columbus and Modern Historians," elicits diverse reactions from readers, as evident from the mixed perspectives presented in their feedback. The book scrutinizes the prevalent myth that people during Columbus' time believed in a flat Earth, with Russell challenging this misconception by asserting that Columbus and most scholars already knew the Earth was round.

Some reviewers commend Russell for his well-researched and enlightening exploration of this historical fallacy. They appreciate how he skillfully debunks the flat Earth myth and provides compelling evidence to support his claims. These readers find his writing engaging, enjoyable, and appreciate how he challenges commonly held notions about history.

On the other hand, some reviewers express disappointment with Russell's arguments. They find his thesis unconvincing and criticize his overall approach to the topic. These readers argue that he ignores or dismisses certain historical evidence that contradicts his claims. They also suggest that his writing style is overly academic and dry, making it less accessible to the general reader.

Furthermore, a few reviews criticize the book for being repetitive or disorganized. These readers feel that Russell reiterates his points too frequently, which becomes tiresome. Additionally, the structure of the book appears disjointed at times, making it challenging to follow the overall argument.

Overall, the reviews for "Inventing the Flat Earth" by Jeffrey Burton Russell demonstrate a diverse range of opinions. While some readers appreciate the in-depth research and compelling arguments, others find the book lacking in evidence and engaging writing. In any contentious topic, it is crucial for readers to approach the book with an open mind and arrive at their own conclusions.

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