Michael Scot Encyclopedia Article

Michael Scot

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Michael Scot

before 1200-c. 1235

Details of the life of this translator and astrologer are unknown. The "Scot" in his name may mean he was either Scottish or Irish. He described himself as "astrologer to the emperor." Around 1217, he traveled to Spain and learned Arabic and possibly Hebrew. Michael translated the works of al-Bitruji, some previously "lost" writings of Aristotle, and various other books from Arabic into Latin. His original writings were on astrological and general lore, often including magical elements.