Authors/Philippus Hermanni
From Theatrum Paracelsicum
< Authors
Personal Bibliography
Dedications, Prefaces, Postfaces
- Preface, no date (1553), Philippus Hermanni to the Reader; Dutch (Source: BP031)
- from: Philippus Hermanni, Dat Secreet der Philosophijen, 1553
- Hermanni aims to reveal the noble art of mineral distillation to the reader, which involves extracting moisture and beneficial elements from minerals such as salts, alums, vitriol, sulfur, mercury, and metals like lead, tin, iron, gold, silver, and copper for use in medicine. The author acknowledges that alchemy has been discredited, but believes that its principles and techniques are necessary for proper preparation of minerals for medical use. The author distinguishes between the true purpose of alchemy (medicine) and its misguided intentions to turn base metals into gold or silver. The author argues that the art of alchemy is necessary for medicine and praises physicians who are experts in it. The prologue concludes with a discussion of the names of the simples used in the art and how the works of the art are called.
- Preface, no date [1553], Philippus Hermanni to the Reader; Dutch
- The prologue addresses the reader on the importance and purpose of the book, which is dedicated to the noble art of surgery. The author is motivated by the significant errors and abuses he observes in the field, emphasizing that surgery is a divine art meant to aid the needy and serve humanity. He stresses the need for diligent observation, mature understanding, and the proper application of surgical practices to avoid harming the poor. The book aims to provide comfort and support to surgeons, both experienced and novice, encouraging them to move away from past mistakes and embrace well-composed remedies and techniques derived from the work of Paracelsus. The author urges readers to approach the book with an open mind, to not dismiss its contents without firsthand experience, and to appreciate its value based on personal trials. He warns against haughty claims of mastery and knowledge without substance, advocating for a humble and conscientious application of surgical skills for the benefit of all. The prologue concludes with a call to vigilance and moral responsibility, reminding readers of the accountability they hold before God in their practice of surgery, and positioning the book as a valuable resource for genuine practitioners and a rebuke to those who misuse the art.
The 1556 addition criticizes a Peter Volck, who boasts about his surgical skills and experiences in war, implying that true surgical expertise can only be acquired through warfare. The author questions Peter's qualifications, noting his lack of certification and his tendency to leave patients in despair, suggesting that his claims of greatness and healing are unfounded. The author highlights the danger of such unverified claims, as they can lead to harm and deceit, especially when such individuals demand payment for ineffective treatments. The passage emphasizes the importance of genuine skill and knowledge in surgery, cautioning against the valorization of experience without proven competence, and criticizes those who exploit their alleged expertise for financial gain while leaving a trail of unhealed patients and potential deceit.
- The prologue addresses the reader on the importance and purpose of the book, which is dedicated to the noble art of surgery. The author is motivated by the significant errors and abuses he observes in the field, emphasizing that surgery is a divine art meant to aid the needy and serve humanity. He stresses the need for diligent observation, mature understanding, and the proper application of surgical practices to avoid harming the poor. The book aims to provide comfort and support to surgeons, both experienced and novice, encouraging them to move away from past mistakes and embrace well-composed remedies and techniques derived from the work of Paracelsus. The author urges readers to approach the book with an open mind, to not dismiss its contents without firsthand experience, and to appreciate its value based on personal trials. He warns against haughty claims of mastery and knowledge without substance, advocating for a humble and conscientious application of surgical skills for the benefit of all. The prologue concludes with a call to vigilance and moral responsibility, reminding readers of the accountability they hold before God in their practice of surgery, and positioning the book as a valuable resource for genuine practitioners and a rebuke to those who misuse the art.
- Postface, no date (1553), Philippus Hermanni to the Reader; Dutch (Source: BP032)
- from: Paracelsus, Die Peerle der Chirurgijen, ed. Philippus Hermanni, 1553
- Hermanni urges readers to judiciously apply the medical knowledge from his book, emphasising the importance of ethical medical practice. He implores readers not to harm patients and to strive for perfection in their work. Hermanni also underscores the need to continually review and understand the book's contents, and to apply the remedies it describes.
- Preface, no date (1553), by Philippus Hermanni; Dutch (Source: BP1553-06)
- from: Philippus Hermanni, Een excellent Trackaet, 1553
- Hermanni promises to educate the reader about the true cause of the disease known as Pox, and correct prevailing treatment errors. He outlines his plan to teach effective use of Lignum guaiacum (Pox Wood) for curing patients, with God's help. He criticizes those promising cures without understanding the disease, thus endangering patients. Hermanni's aim is to guide readers towards reliable treatment methods that not only cure but also improve patients' overall health.
