The Importance of the Eclipse in Ancient Society
Overview
Humans have always sought to bring order and stability to their lives. From the earliest times, ancient people were drawn to the majesty and permanence of the heavens. Over time, early societies attached religious and spiritual significance to the regular motions of the celestial realm. When an astronomical event such as an eclipse took place, most ancient people believed it was the action of a divine being. When the rays of the Sun or the glow of the Moon were extinguished, early societies believed this was a terrible omen and that some type of disaster was imminent.
Background
Life for early man was short and traumatic, and he longed for permanence in a world that was governed by change. Humans were able to succeed in this highly competitive environment because they had important advantages over animals. Specifically, their large brains allowed them to develop the critical thinking skills that eventually evolved into their most powerful tool. This reasoning capacity was expanded into methods of practical application because their hands were free from the task of locomotion and their opposable thumbs gave them the dexterity to create and use tools and weapons.
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