Authors/Wilhelm Xylander

Poems

• Poem, no date (1569), by Wilhelm Xylander; Latin (Source: BP.Erastus.1569-01)

from: Thomas Erastus, Defensio Libelli Hieronymi Savonarolae de Astrologia Diuinatrice, [Genève]: Jean Le Preux and Jean Petit, 1569

The poem by Wilhelm Xylander reflects on the notions of fate, astrology, and divine knowledge. On the same day, at the same hour, two children were born under the same celestial signs, sharing the same homeland. Despite being born under identical celestial circumstances, their destinies are profoundly different. One child, Firminus, is destined for great honors, power, and nobility. The other is foreseen to live a life of servitude. Yet, both were seen under the same celestial bodies, with no differentiation by planets like Jupiter, Venus, or Mars.

• Poem 1, no date (1571), Wilhelm Xylander to Thomas Erastus; Greek (Source: BP.Erastus.1571-01)

from: Thomas Erastus, Disputationum de medicina nova Philippi Paracelsi pars prima, 1571

In this poem Xylander praises Thomas Erastus for his illuminating work. Xylander commends Erastus for his wisdom and piety, describing his contributions as a 'defence of unerring healing' and a 'beneficial remedy' to those seeking truth amidst societal emptiness and hollow-mindedness. Despite the envy and strife that his work might arouse, Xylander asserts Erastus's intentions are not for personal gain but for the common good. He concludes by metaphorically describing envy's self-destructive nature. Overall, Xylander presents Erastus's work as a beacon of wisdom, divine truth, and healing, in a world often plagued by ignorance and misguided pursuits.

• Poem 2, no date (1571), Wilhelm Xylander to Thomas Erastus; Latin (Source: BP.Erastus.1571-01)

from: Thomas Erastus, Disputationum de medicina nova Philippi Paracelsi pars prima, 1571

The poem critiques Paracelsus for his arrogant claims in the realm of medicine, where he considers himself superior to notable figures like Galen and Hippocrates. Paracelsus is also reproached for his blasphemous remarks about God, indicative of an attempt to replace established religious norms with a new doctrine. The text warns about the potentially destructive impact of his theories, not only within the medical field, but also in theological discourse. Erastus is lauded for his efforts to debunk Paracelsus' controversial assertions, backed by divine support. The poem concludes with an appeal to discerning and devout readers to repudiate such egotistical posturing.

• Poem 3, no date (1571), by Wilhelm Xylander; Latin (Source: BP.Erastus.1571-01)

from: Thomas Erastus, Disputationum de medicina nova Philippi Paracelsi pars prima, 1571