The Royal Chemistry

DEDICATION

It is the duty of a Prince to promote the pursuit of wisdom and to investigate the secrets of Nature and Art.

And because those who are most loving of virtue are freely ready to help those devoted to virtue, they imitate the ancient kindness kindnessoriginal: humanitatem. In this Renaissance context, this refers to the classical ideal of "humanitas"—a blend of benevolence, civilization, and advanced learning. of Princes through their own benevolence, favor, and generosity. Thus, they might mercifully assist worthy men who are weighed down by the burden of poverty original: egestatis. Early modern scholars often lacked personal wealth and were entirely dependent on noble "stipends" to fund their research and printing costs., yet who desire and have the ability to serve the public good.

While, moreover, for many centuries now, Illustrious Prince, it has been received by long-standing custom that New Books should be dedicated to Princes (who, of all men, are most suited to know the greatest mysteries original: mysteria. This likely refers to the "secrets" of alchemy and nature mentioned in the margin. and to be presented with them above others). By their patronage patronageoriginal: patrocinio. A formal system of legal and financial protection provided by a social superior to a subordinate. and favor, these works are fortified as if by a lesser shield lesser shieldoriginal: Minore ægide. In mythology, the Aegis was the protective shield of Athena. The author suggests the Prince's name acts as a symbolic shield for the book.: safe from the injury of Envious Calumniators, as is the way of this filthy world, where always...