Apology for All the Great Men Accused of Magic

PREFACE.

It seemed more appropriate to me to arrange them under the titles of their various dignities and offices, so that having done so for the Philosophers, Physicians, Monks, Bishops, Popes, and all the other famous personages whom I had proposed to defend; it only remained for me to attach the other end of my net to the final Chapter of this ApologyA formal written defense of one's opinions or conduct, rather than an expression of regret., which will show you in conclusion by what means all these falsehoods are maintained, and what one must expect from them if they are not repressed.

Now, just as this first word only tends to declare myself and make my intention known; so must it be admitted that the point I now wish to deduce has no other goal than to excuse, or rather justify, myself for having variegated my French with some Latin sentences and authorities: For I know well that many writers who are esteemed among the most polished of this century can only look with a disdainful eye upon the writings of those who do not make a profession, as they do, of composing fables and amorous encounters for the entertainment of women and small children. But as I am grateful to them