Authors/Hieronymus Reusner

Personal Bibliography

Bibliographia Paracelsistarum/Hieronymus Reusner

Dedications, Prefaces, Postfaces

• Dedicatory Inscription, no date (1581), Hieronymus Reusner to Johannes Schmidt, Heinrich Schmidt and Sebald Sauermann; Latin (Source: BP.Erastus.1581-03) (#3026)

from: Thomas Erastus, Theses de sudore, Basel: Leonhard Ostein, 1581

Hieronymus Reusner dedicates his theses with great honor to three respected patricians of Wrocław, praising their nobility, virtue, and learning, and highlighting their unwavering sincerity and true friendship.

• Dedicatory Letter, 1 September 1592, by Hieronymus Reusner; Latin (Source: BP.Reusner.1582-01) (#5895)

from: Jodocus Willich, Vrinarum probationes, ed. Hieronymus Reusner, Basel: Sebastian Henricpetri, 1582

Reusner begins by referencing Aristotle, highlighting the philosopher's insights into human nature and governance. He draws parallels between Aristotle's observations on Spartan society and the tendencies of contemporary philosophers, noting how easy acceptance and leniency can lead to arrogance and complacency.
Reusner criticizes the state of academic and intellectual discourse, lamenting that many scholars have become content with superficial understanding and have ceased to pursue deeper truths. He argues that this intellectual stagnation has led to a neglect of rigorous analysis and the blind acceptance of established ideas without further exploration or challenge.
The dedication also delves into the realm of medicine, specifically addressing the controversial use of substances like antimony and vitriol. Reusner argues against their misuse and advocates for a more enlightened and careful approach to medical practice, drawing upon the work of Paracelsus and Galen. He emphasizes the importance of separating truth from falsehood in medical science, advocating for a more thoughtful and refined methodology.
Reusner expresses concern about his own position in the intellectual community, fearing that his unconventional ideas might lead to his ostracization. He draws upon personal experience and the broader context of philosophical and medical debate to underscore the challenges faced by those who question established norms.
Finally, Reusner dedicates his work to the Council and Senate, seeking their protection and support. He acknowledges his indebtedness to them, both personally (through his father Christoph Reusner) and professionally, and expresses his hope that his work will contribute to the greater good.

Poems

• Poem, Hieronymus Reusner to Daniel Scepsius; Latin

Source: Hieronymus Reusner, Γενεθλια ad cunas Christi, Leipzig: Hans Rambau, 1578, sig. A1v [BP.Reusner.1578-01]

The passage is a tribute to Doctor Daniel Scepsius, expressing gratitude and admiration for his scholarly contributions and teachings. It uses rich metaphors, comparing the relief and guidance Scepsius provides to the weary and those in turmoil to the shade of an aloe during scorching heat and the guidance of a ship by Christ amidst turbulent seas. Scepsius is celebrated for dedicating his life to the pursuit of knowledge and for providing sustenance—likened to nectar and ambrosia—to those in need of intellectual and spiritual nourishment.

• Poem, no date (1584), Hieronymus Reusner to Simone Simoni; Latin (Source: BP.Erastus.1584-03)

from: Simone Simoni, Disputatio de putredine, Kraków: Łazarz Andrysowic, 1584

Reusner extols Simoni for his groundbreaking work in unraveling the complexities of putrefaction, making difficult medical concepts accessible to many. Simoni's contributions are likened to a shining light in the medical field, guiding and ending many challenges that others have failed to address. The poem also acknowledges the criticisms from detractors, symbolized by Zoilus. However, Reusner encourages Simoni to remain undeterred, emphasizing that his invaluable work will earn him lasting fame and appreciation from future generations. The poem concludes with a note that while critics may face their downfall, Simoni's legacy will endure.