Britannica
Sources used in this answer
What happened during the 980 debate between Gerbert of Aurillac and Otric at Ravenna?
Created from Britannica articles
using AI.
AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.
Sylvester II
Sylvester II, detail from the ivory vessel used at the consecration of Otto III, 996; in the Domschatzkammer des Aachener Domes, Aachen, Ger.
In December 980, Emperor Otto II presided over a debate in Ravenna between Gerbert of Aurillac and Otric, the master of the cathedral school at Magdeburg. The conflict arose because Otric, jealous of Gerbertās growing reputation, had denounced him to the Emperor. The debate centered on the classification of knowledge, and the argument became so vehement that it was only brought to an end when the Emperor intervened.1