The Opus Majus

The Opus Majus is a comprehensive work by the 13th-century scholar Roger Bacon, written to advance scientific knowledge and understanding. It covers diverse topics like mathematics, astronomy, law, philosophy, and the scientific method. Bacon aimed to promote empirical investigation—gaining knowledge through observation and experimentation—challenging reliance on traditional authorities. The Opus Majus was intended to be a guide for scholars and rulers, emphasizing rational inquiry and technological progress. Its significance lies in its early advocacy for scientific methods that underpin modern science and its role in transmitting medieval learning into the Renaissance.