Authors/Benedictus Aretius

Dedications, Prefaces, Postfaces

• Dedication, 1 March 1572, Benedictus Aretius to Wigand Happel; Latin (Source: BP139)

from: Anonymous [Paracelsus], De medicamentorum simplicium gradibus et compositionibus, opus nouum, ed. Benedicus Aretius, 1572

Aretius is sending a book to a distinguished person who he believes is the most suitable to be its patron. He recounts his experiences during the war, his friendship with his roommate, and their shared interest in the study of herbs. The author also mentions his acquaintance with several doctors and their gardens. He asks the distinguished person to support the book and not deny his patronage. Finally, he asks those who may be offended by the book to respect their freedom to pursue their studies and use their own judgment.

• Preface, no date (1572), Benedictus Aretius to the Reader; Latin (Source: BP139)

from: Anonymous [Paracelsus], De medicamentorum simplicium gradibus et compositionibus, opus nouum, ed. Benedicus Aretius, 1572

The preface is addressed to the reader of a new medical and chemical booklet, whose author remains anonymous. The author is believed to be learned, discussing concepts like heat and cold, and seems to possess a unique healing method. The reader is encouraged to interpret the author's obscure language with clarity and without bias. It is mentioned that the booklet can be beneficial to the healing method and chemical arts if the technical terms are interpreted properly. The author's style is characterized as cryptic and critical, and it's suggested that these elements need to be understood for the benefit of all. A list of philosophical terminologies that require explanation is provided. The critical aspect is noted as being harsh towards other authors. The booklet praises only Hippocrates, Raymond, Arnold of Villanova, and Albucasim, while condemning many other scholars, including Galen, Pliny, Dioscorides, Platearius, and Albert the Great, among others. The preface concludes by noting the imperfection and diversity of human opinion, stating that even the most polished geniuses often face disagreement. The addition of brief summaries and outlines for each chapter, derived from the collections of Euchopoedius, is also mentioned. These summaries, while concise, may lack coherence as they resemble notes taken by students. The reader is urged to read and form their own judgement.

Notices, Editorial Remarks etc.

• Notice, no date (1572), Benedictus Aretius to the Reader; Latin (Source: BP139)

from: Anonymous [Paracelsus], De medicamentorum simplicium gradibus et compositionibus, opus nouum, ed. Benedicus Aretius, 1572

The text is addressing the reader, noting that in order to make good use of the space on the paper, it provides a collection of certain, potentially useful, items gathered from various sources by Paracelsus.