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Automata

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143 views

Automata

Uploaded by

clairederoquette
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Claire de Roquette-Buisson

What is the origin of the word 'automaton' ? What do you know about the very first
automata, give examples. Why did they develop in the 18th century ?
Think about the differences between the devices of late antiquity and those of the
enlightenment. Describe your favorite one and explain why you chose it.

The origin of the term “automaton” comes from the Greek word “automatos”, which means
“acting of itself”. This word captures what an automaton is: an autonomous machine, often
designed to imitate human or animal actions.

Automata themselves seem to be an ancient concept dating back to ancient civilizations,


where devices of any complexity were generally intended to meet religious or entertainment
needs. In the first century AD, for example, a large number of mechanical devices were
developed by the Greek engineer, one of them was the Heron of Alexandria, including
automata capable of pouring wine or opening temple doors. One of the most popular
exemple or automata were the birds in Baghdad and Constantinople, several caliphs owned
"bird trees". They were placed at the center of a fountain. They were used to promote the
technology to the visitors but also a refreshing spot in the capital.

In the 18th century, the development of automata progressed considerably as the


Enlightenment emphasized science and reason. This period saw the creation of the most
sophisticated and realistic automata ever built, often used to demonstrate the mechanics of
the human body or to imitate the movements of larger-than-life characters. The fact is, it's
become something of a curious pop-cultural trend to tinker with and even create mechanical
devices. The result is an increased readiness to bring improved mechanical knowledge,
precision tools and techniques to the automotive industry.

One of the notable automata in the 18th century is the Silver Swan: This automaton, created
by John Joseph Merlin and James Cox in 1773, is a clockwork-driven simulation of a
life-sized swan, which elegantly bends its neck to catch fish in water.

One of my favorite automata is the monk automata. I discovered this automaton thanks to
the Moodle Sorbonne web site. I thought that it was scary to me but finally I like the object
and it’s really impressive how it's still working even after 400 years. According to the History
of information web site who deals with automata and specially the monk automata “the
emperor's son King Philip II, praying at the bedside of a dying son of his own, promised a
miracle for a miracle, if his child be spared.” he that finally happened Turriano the creator
construct the automata.
Works Cited :

Juanelo Turriano Creates a Working Automaton of a Monk


- https://www.historyofinformation.com/detail.php?id=3078
Consulted on May 1st, 2024.

Les automates d’oiseaux chanteurs


- https://www.mariellebrie.com/les-automates-doiseaux-chanteurs/
Consulted on May 1st, 2024.

17th & 18 Century Automata


https://themadmuseum.co.uk/history-of-automata/17th-18th-century-automata/
Consulted on May 1st, 2024.

Famous automatons and their rich history


https://rauantiques.com/blogs/canvases-carats-and-curiosities/automatons-and-their-rich-hist
ory
Consulted on May 1st, 2024.

Enlightened Automata
https://monoskop.org/images/2/2d/Schaffer_Simon_1999_Enlightened_Automata.pdf
Consulted on May 1st, 2024.

James Cox’s Silver Swan


https://journals.openedition.org/artefact/525
Consulted on May 1st, 2024.

The Silver Swan Story


https://thebowesmuseum.org.uk/the-silver-swan-story/
Consulted on May 1st, 2024.

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