Authors/Melchior Breler

Dedications, Prefaces, Postfaces

• Preface, no date [1611], Melchior Breler to Georg Remus; Latin

Source: Melchior Breler, Bubo Gallicus Franciscus Ravaillart, Athenis Noricorum ad matricem Noricam emissus, Altdorf: Conrad Agricola, 1611, sig. [unsigned]1v–[unsigned]2r [BP.Breler.1611-01]

Breler expresses his initial hesitation in publishing his work, acknowledging the common skepticism towards new writings in the philosophical genre unless endorsed by a reputable figure. He chooses Remus for his dedication, recognizing his exceptional wisdom, learning, and piety, and his unparalleled experience in philosophy. Breler reflects on the nature of deception and caution, invoking the tragic fate of Henry IV of France, who, despite his vigilance, could not escape assassination. This historical reference serves to illustrate the unpredictable nature of fate and the limits of human caution. Breler likens deceitful individuals to hyenas that mimic human voices to lure their victims, emphasizing the difficulty of distinguishing genuine friends from foes. He concludes by dedicating his prologue to Remus, hoping it will find favor among the noble and learned. Breler aspires that his work, particularly the tragic elements reminiscent of Henry IV's story, will resonate across different languages and nations, ultimately serving as a testament to his loyal service to his king.

• Dedicatory Letter, Melchior Breler to Johann Christoph Graeter; Latin

Source: Melchior Breler, Schediasmatum Iuvenilium Manipulus unus, Altdorf: Conrad Agricola, 1611, sig. A1v [BP.Breler.1611-02]

• Preface, 31 July 1618, Anonymous [Melchior Breler] to the Reader; Latin

Source: Francis Anthony, Panacea Aurea Sive Tractatus duo de ipsius Auro Potabili, Hamburg: Georg Ludwig Frobenius, 1618, sig. (a)2r–(a)8v [BP.Anthony.1618-01]

Breler's preface introduces the publication of two treatises by Francis Anthony. The works, first released in London and now reprinted in Germany, advocate for the esteemed tradition of Adam's Wisdom and Hermeticism, which, according to Breler, migrated to their homeland alongside a purer form of religion. Breler emphasizes the historical appreciation and support for individuals like Joseph Duchesne and Francis Anthony, who faced opposition in their native lands but were celebrated for their contributions elsewhere, particularly in the context of medical and alchemical advancements.
Breler addresses the controversial nature of Anthony's work, particularly the potable gold, which has been both praised for its healing properties and criticized by skeptics. He argues against the detractors, asserting the value of Hermetic knowledge in understanding natural phenomena and medicine. By comparing the criticisms of potable gold to misguided judgements in other scientific areas, Breler defends the legitimacy of Hermetic practices and the transformative power of substances like potable gold, suggesting that true wisdom lies in recognizing the broader applications and benefits of such discoveries.
The preface also contains a letter from Francis Anthony to Melchior Breler, detailing a successful demonstration of his potable gold before the King and a panel of Dogmatists. Anthony describes the process of proving the efficacy and purity of his gold, emphasizing the royal endorsement and the failure of his critics to undermine his work. Breler concludes by praising Anthony's achievements and urging readers to embrace Hermetic philosophy for spiritual and physical betterment, hinting at the broader implications for the reconciliation of scientific exploration and divine wisdom.