Noli turbare circulos meos!

Noli turbare circulos meos! is a Latin phrase that translates to "Do not disturb my circles!" in English. This phrase is famously attributed to the ancient Greek mathematician, Archimedes, during the Siege of Syracuse (214–212 BC). Archimedes is celebrated for his significant contributions to the fields of mathematics, physics, and engineering, and this particular incident highlights his dedication to his work, even in the face of imminent danger.

Background

Archimedes was born in the city of Syracuse, on the island of Sicily, around 287 BC. He is known for his work in the fields of mathematics, particularly in geometry, calculus, and the theory of levers and pulleys. Archimedes' contributions laid foundational stones for modern science and engineering. The phrase "Noli turbare circulos meos!" is linked to a story that occurred later in his life, during the Roman conquest of Syracuse.

The Siege of Syracuse

The Siege of Syracuse was a significant military engagement during the Second Punic War, where Roman forces sought to capture the city of Syracuse, which was allied with Carthage. Archimedes played a crucial role in the defense of Syracuse through his ingenious war machines and inventions, which included the Archimedes' screw, catapults, and purportedly, the Archimedes' heat ray.

The Incident

According to the historian Plutarch, as Roman soldiers entered Syracuse, Archimedes was engrossed in drawing geometric figures in the sand. A Roman soldier approached him and ordered him to come and meet General Marcellus, who had shown interest in the mathematician. Archimedes, absorbed in his work, refused to move, uttering the famous words, "Noli turbare circulos meos!" or "Do not disturb my circles!" The soldier, either not understanding the importance of Archimedes' work or out of impatience, killed him on the spot.

Legacy

The phrase "Noli turbare circulos meos!" has since become emblematic of the pursuit of knowledge and the dedication to scientific inquiry, even in the face of adversity. Archimedes' death is often cited as a tragic loss to the world of science, as it is believed that he was on the verge of several more significant discoveries. His work, however, has lived on and continues to influence the fields of mathematics and science to this day.

See Also

• History of mathematics
• Ancient Greek science
• Siege engines
• Inventions of Archimedes