Sundials: Their Theory and Construction – Albert E. Waugh – 1973
Sundials: Their Theory and Construction
Albert E. Waugh’s Sundials: Their Theory and Construction, first published in 1973, is a comprehensive exploration of gnomonics – the science of timekeeping with sundials. This work examines not merely the practical construction of these instruments, but delves into the mathematical and astronomical principles that underpin their function. It covers a wide range of sundial types, from simple horizontal dials to more complex equatorial and analemmatic designs, detailing their design, calculation, and adjustment for specific latitudes.
Historical / Cultural Context
The use of sundials extends back millennia, representing one of humanity’s earliest attempts to measure and conceptualize time. Before the advent of mechanical clocks, sundials were essential for regulating daily life, religious observances, and agricultural practices. This book places itself within a longer tradition of scientific inquiry into timekeeping, building upon the work of astronomers and mathematicians from ancient Greece, the Islamic Golden Age, and the European Renaissance. Waugh’s work appeared during a period of renewed interest in historical technologies and a growing appreciation for the ingenuity of pre-industrial societies. It’s a product of a late 20th-century impulse to understand the technical achievements of the past through a modern scientific lens.
Who This Book Is For
This book is aimed at readers with an interest in the history of science, astronomy, and the practical application of mathematics. While Waugh assumes some familiarity with trigonometry and basic astronomical concepts, he presents the information in a generally accessible manner. It would appeal to amateur astronomers, clock enthusiasts, historians of technology, and anyone intrigued by the intersection of science, art, and timekeeping. The detailed instructions and diagrams make it valuable for those seeking to build their own sundials, but its strengths lie as much in its theoretical explanations as in its practical guidance.
Further Reading
- A History of Horology by Henry King: Provides a broader historical context for timekeeping devices, including sundials.
- The Shadow of Time by Robert P. Multhauf: Explores the cultural significance of sundials and other timekeeping instruments.
- Sundials and Roses of Yesterday by Ralph E. Grimshaw: Focuses on the artistic and aesthetic aspects of sundials.
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