HISTSCI 1110: Galileo: Discovery, Faith, Ego, and the Making of Scientific Controversy

Semester: Fall

Year offered: 2026

Link: Course Website

With Professor Hannah Marcus on Monday at 12:00-2:45 pm

Galileo Galilei (1564-1642) is undeniably among the most iconic scientists in history. His long career was defined by scientific controversy. From early disputes over his military compass to his telescopic discoveries and vocal advocacy for a heliocentric cosmos despite religious opposition, Galileo never shied away from a scientific dispute. This class explores the life and writings of Galileo and his family, disciples, and adversaries. We will appreciate Galileo’s inventive work and striking prose, critique his social and scientific strategies, and grapple with the deep impression that this figure has left on the history and future of scientific controversy.

Hannah Marcus

hmarcus@fas.harvard.edu

Professor of the History of Science

Faculty Director of the Collection of Historical Scientific Instruments

Areas of Research: Early Modern Science and Medicine Hannah Marcus is Professor of the History of Science in the Department of the History of Science and the Faculty Director of the Collection of Historical Scientific Instruments at Harvard University...