POE,EDGAR,ALLAN PHYSICAL COSMOLOGY

In this paper I describe the scientific content of Eureka, the prose p oem written by Edgar Allan Poe in 1848. In that work, starting from me taphysical assumptions, Poe claims that the Universe is finite in an i nfinite Space, and that it originated from a primordial Particle, whos e fragmentation under the action of a repulsive force caused a diffusi on of atoms in space. I will show that his subsequently collapsing uni verse represents a scientifically acceptable Newtonian model. In the f ramework of his evolving universe, Poe makes use of contemporary astro nomical knowledge, deriving modem concepts such as a primordial atomic state of the universe and a common epoch of galaxy formation. Harriso n found in Eureka the first, qualitative solution of the Olbers' parad ox; I show that Poe also applies, in a modern way, the anthropic princ iple, trying to explain why the Universe is so large.