Who were the Roman astrologers, and what were their contributions to Western astrology?

Roman astrologers, known as astrologi or mathemati, were influential in shaping Western astrology during the Roman Empire. They believed that the positions of the planets, stars, and moon at a person's birth influenced their character, fate, and future. This belief was combined with Greek astrology, which the Romans had adopted.

One of the most famous Roman astrologers was Claudius Ptolemy, who wrote the 'Tetrabiblos,' a comprehensive work on astrology. Ptolemy's ideas on astrology were based on the idea that the universe was a vast system of interconnected parts, and that the movements of the planets and stars were synchronized with the events on Earth.

Another notable Roman astrologer was Firmicus Maternus, who wrote the 'Mathesis,' a text that combined astrology with various mystical beliefs. Maternus believed that astrology could be used for spiritual enlightenment and personal growth, as well as for predicting the future. He also believed that astronomy and astrology were connected, and that astrology was a form of divine revelation.

Overall, the contributions of Roman astrologers to Western astrology were significant. They helped to solidify astrology as a respected discipline, and their ideas and beliefs continue to influence astrologers today.