The Hermetic and Alchemical Writings of Paracelsus, Volume I: Hermetic Chemistry (c. 1894) - Paracelsus

What did a Renaissance physician believe alchemy could reveal about the hidden workings of nature?

First published in this English edition in 1894, The Hermetic and Alchemical Writings of Paracelsus brings together writings attributed to the pioneering physician and alchemist Paracelsus (c. 1493–1541), translated and edited by Arthur Edward Waite.

This first volume, Hermetic Chemistry, explores the seven planetary metals, the principles of Salt, Sulphur and Mercury, the Philosopher's Stone, mineral generation and transformation, and the relationship between alchemical practice and medicine. Its striking imagery includes minerals imagined as growing like trees, bearing metallic flowers and fruit.

An absorbing primary source for readers of alchemical history, Hermetic philosophy, early medicine and Renaissance ideas about the natural world.

Edition: London, 1894 · Editor and translator: A. E. Waite · Volume: I — Hermetic Chemistry · Format: downloadable historical PDF, 414 pages.

Historical text presented for research and educational interest. Its medical and alchemical claims should not be treated as contemporary scientific or medical advice.