Astrology swept through the Greek world starting in the second or first century B.C.E. Its great success was due to the fact that it resonated so strongly with other aspects of the culture, including astronomy, mathematics, philosophy, and popular religion. Although we know a good deal about the history of astrological doctrine, until recently we have known little about actual practice. Who were the practitioners? Where did they practice? What sort of apparatus did they use? By drawing on a wide range of evidence, including literary texts, papyri, engraved gems, coins, statuary, and mummy portraits, we can now sketch a surprisingly detailed picture of the professional practice of astrology in Greek Egypt in the second century C.E.

Admission is free and open to the public. A reception will follow the lecture. Sponsored by the Adler Planetarium and the Archaeological Institute of America: The Chicago Society