Natural Magic

With these things prepared, and as I was already "packing my bags" original: "sarcinulas colligens." A metaphorical expression suggesting the author is preparing for the end of his life or the conclusion of his work., I remained anxious in my mind as to whether I should allow them to come into the light. For there are many things here that are most excellent and worthy of the greatest heroes; yet if ignorant men, not yet initiated into the sacred mysteries of Philosophy, were to obtain them, they would surely become cheapened and despised. Plato says to Dionysius: Those who attempt to hand these things over to unrefined and profane men seem to make philosophy look ridiculous. original: "Philosophiam videntur ridiculam facere, qui agrestibus & prophanis viris hæc tradere conantur." Furthermore, there are many things that are harmful and malicious, which, if they fell into the hands of wicked and dishonest men, could bring harm to someone.

What, then, should be done? Let envy be defeated and cast aside; let the pleasure of helping future generations prevail. The most majestic wonders of Nature must not be concealed or kept silent, so that in them the supreme power, kindness, and wisdom of God may be praised, cherished, and venerated. However small these things may be, I set them out for you; may you recognize that my diligence and most devoted will were directed toward you. Indeed, I feared that I would incur the guilt of a wicked man if I had kept these secrets hidden. Cicero carries over a thought from Plato: We are not born for ourselves alone, but our country, our parents, and our friends should claim a part of us for themselves. original: "Non nobis solum nos esse natos, sed partem patria, partem parentes & amici sibi vindicare debent." This is a famous Stoic sentiment found in Cicero's "De Officiis," emphasizing social duty over private gain.

Therefore, let those things which until now lay hidden in the lap of wondrous Nature emerge into the light from the storehouses of the most renowned men, without disguise or deception. We reveal those things about which there has long been silence—whether because of the envy of the knowledgeable or the ignorance of the unlearned. Here you will not hear empty trifles, nor riddles, nor the mere authorities of others. Nor did it seem right to us to "err honorably" original: "honeste errare." Porta implies that he prefers finding the truth through his own experiments rather than following the prestigious but incorrect theories of ancient authors. by following even the best leaders. Most magnificent and excellent—