Rheticus, the Beer of Wrocław, and the Reformation of Astrology.A little-known Poem

The article offers the first complete edition and annotated translation of «De xii. Signis Zodiaci», a little-known poem inspired by Georg Joachim Rheticus and written by his friend Kaspar Brusch. The negative effects on the human mind and body of drinking too much beer are compared to the ready-made images offered by facile astrology, as practiced in the sixteenth century. The mockery provides unusual elements to approach Rheticus’ programme, aimed at the re-foundation of a mathematically rigorous science of the stars, as well as interesting hints for a better understanding of Renaissance mentality.