Do We Already Know Everything About Nicolaus Copernicus's Studies?

Some Reflections on Marian Chachaj's Monograph

Abstract

This article discusses a recent monograph on the studies of Nicolaus Copernicus. The book demonstrates the degree of difficulty faced by a historian constructing a narrative about a protagonist who did not leave behind direct source testimony during the period under analysis. The reviewed monograph organizes knowledge about Nicolaus Copernicus' student days, and the author in many places verifies the findings of predecessors, showing a reliable picture of the environment in which the astronomer functioned during his studies.