Authors/Anonymous

Dedications, Prefaces, Postfaces

• Preface, no date, Anonymous to the Reader; German (Source: BP100)

from: Paracelsus, Aphorismorum aliquot Hippocratis genuinus sensus & vera interpretatio, no date [1568]

The preface addresses the reader regarding the writings of Theophrastus Paracelsus, who was admired by many for his intellect despite his simple demeanor. The author is publishing previously unreleased work by Paracelsus, including his commentary on Hippocrates' Aphorisms and treatises on corals, St. John's Wort, and water pepper. Rather than praising these works themselves, the author urges readers to form their own opinions, as they are self-evidently useful and good. The author criticizes those who unfairly mock or belittle Paracelsus' work out of jealousy, and warns against pseudodisciples who claim to follow Paracelsus but fail to truly understand or utilize his teachings, instead attacking those who disagree. The author reminds readers that greatness should be imitated in virtue, not vice, and such pseudodisciples should prove their understanding through action, not just sharp writing. Lastly, the author asks for the reader's understanding for any errors in the text, which stem from limitations in the original copy used for this publication, not from negligence or carelessness.

• Preface, no date (1570), Anonymous to the Reader; German (Source: BP121)

from: Paracelsus, Archidoxorum Theophrastiae pars prima, 1570

The reader is informed that this edition of the "Archidoxes" books by the renowned physician and philosopher Theophrastus Paracelsus is more accurate than prior versions, as it is derived directly from the author's original handwriting. In addition, a previously unpublished treatise on minerals, from Paracelsus' book on Natural Things, has been included. Despite earlier editions of the works on vitriol and sulfur being flawed, this version aims to present them in their entirety as originally intended by the author. The goal is to disseminate Paracelsus' works widely, enlightening many with his revelations about nature, under the conviction that knowledge kept hidden is of no benefit to anyone.

• Preface, no date (1573), Anonymous to the Reader; German (Source: BP149)

from: Wunder Artzney/ Von allerley leibs gebrüchen, 1573

This lengthy preface is a treatise on the practice of medicine, primarily arguing that there are three main fields of knowledge necessary for true healing: nature, alchemy, and astrology. The writer presents a case against some of the conventional medical practices of their time, using imagery of digestion to illustrate how a weak body struggles to break down and benefit from common remedies. They promote their philosophy of Theophrastian medicine, presumably named after the ancient philosopher Theophrastus, suggesting it is more gentle, effective, and less invasive. The author then moves onto the importance of the understanding of astrology in medicine, asserting that studying the heavens and the planetary movements can be integrated into the medical curriculum quite feasibly. This knowledge, they argue, would provide a crucial understanding of when to administer particular treatments. The final section of the text is more admonitory, criticizing those who dismiss the proposed methods as too complex or impossible to learn. It accuses such naysayers of the vices of "infidelity" and "ingratitude". The writer concludes with a call to embrace these techniques for the overall benefit of Christendom, invoking a spiritual and divine sanction for their perspective.

• Preface, no date (1589), Anonymous [Giacomo Castelvetro] to the Reader; German (Source: BP.Erastus.1589-01)

from: Thomas Erastus, Explicatio Grauissimae Quaestionis, ed. Giacomo Castelvetro, no place, no printer [London: John Wolfe], 1589

The printer explains his efforts to publish a treatise by the renowned Thomas Erastus on Ecclesiastical Discipline and Excommunication. He was motivated by the high esteem in which theses on the topic were held by learned and pious individuals. After discovering the unpublished work among Erastus's papers, neglected by his heirs, he acquired and diligently printed it. He anticipates criticism from those more devoted to partisan interests than truth, suggesting they might accuse him of further disturbing the Church in tumultuous times. He defends his decision, highlighting the support of leading theologians and praise from other scholars. He urges readers to appreciate his diligence and defend him against detractors, hoping to be encouraged to print more beneficial works in the future.