Authors/Johannes Rhenanus
From Theatrum Paracelsicum
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Personal Bibliography
Dedications, Prefaces, Postfaces
- Dedicatory Preface, 1 May 1624, Hermannus Condeesyanus [Johannes Rhenanus] to Christian I, Prince of Anhalt-Bernburg; German
- Source: Dyas Chymica Tripartita, Das ist: Sechs Herrliche Teutsche Philosophische Tractätlein, ed. Hermannus Condeesyanus, Frankfurt am Main: Lucas Jennis, 1625, sig. A3r–B1r = pag. 5–9 [BP.Alchemica.1625-01]
- Rhenanus reflects on the historical perception of his homeland as described by ancient historians like Cornelius Tacitus. He contrasts the ancient view of the land as harsh and barbaric with its current state, highlighting its advancements in agriculture, governance, and intellectual achievements. Rhenanus argues that the German people have produced talents equal to or surpassing those of historically celebrated cultures such as Greece and Italy, in fields ranging from poetry and philosophy to science and technology. He specifically mentions the invention of printing and gunnery as significant contributions and defends the intellectual capacity of his contemporaries against the derogatory descriptions of ancient writers.
Rhenanus also discusses the contributions of German philosophers to mystical philosophy and their pursuit of the Philosopher's Stone, suggesting that Germany has more such learned individuals than any other nation. He cites notable figures and their works to support his claims about the rich intellectual and cultural heritage of his homeland.
The letter concludes with Rhenanus informing Prince Christian that he has received two treatises from contemporary German philosophers on the Philosopher's Stone, which he intends to publish under the prince's patronage. He expresses a desire to demonstrate the ongoing richness of God's gifts to humanity and to validate the true seekers and philosophers of their time.
- Rhenanus reflects on the historical perception of his homeland as described by ancient historians like Cornelius Tacitus. He contrasts the ancient view of the land as harsh and barbaric with its current state, highlighting its advancements in agriculture, governance, and intellectual achievements. Rhenanus argues that the German people have produced talents equal to or surpassing those of historically celebrated cultures such as Greece and Italy, in fields ranging from poetry and philosophy to science and technology. He specifically mentions the invention of printing and gunnery as significant contributions and defends the intellectual capacity of his contemporaries against the derogatory descriptions of ancient writers.
