Ancient calendars and constellations

Ancient Calendars and Constellations by Emmeline Mary Plunket is a comprehensive exploration of the origins, development, and significance of early timekeeping systems and celestial observations across ancient civilizations. Drawing on archaeological findings, historical records, and astronomical research, the book delves into the intricate ways in which ancient peoples—particularly the Babylonians, Egyptians, Greeks, and other early cultures—measured time, structured their calendars, and interpreted the night sky. Plunket examines the evolution of lunar and solar calendars, the role of festivals and religious observances in shaping timekeeping, and the profound influence of celestial bodies such as the sun, moon, and prominent constellations on myth, ritual, and daily life. The narrative traces the transmission of astronomical knowledge through the ages, highlighting the connections between ancient star lore and the constellations recognized today. Richly detailed and meticulously researched, Ancient Calendars and Constellations offers readers a fascinating journey through humanity’s enduring quest to understand and order the cosmos, revealing the deep interrelationship between astronomy, culture, and the passage of time.