Preface

-sophy remained behind; for it is impossible to stand as a good natural scientist Physicus: In this period, a "Physicus" was a student of natural philosophy or physics, tasked with understanding the laws of the physical world. unless one has learned from Nature the manner in which she conducts her operations. This, however, is perfectly explained through Chemistry Chymie: A term used in the 17th and 18th centuries to encompass both practical chemical science and the transformative, often spiritual, practices of alchemy..

This science teaches us how vitriolic Original: "vitriolischen." This refers to sulfates or acidic "waters" (like sulfuric acid) that were believed to circulate through the earth to create minerals. and metallic waters are gathered together in the bowels of the earth and form now minerals, now metals, and now stones—all according to the different deposits Lagerstätte: A geological term for a mineral deposit or ore vein where minerals naturally occur. they encounter. This gives us a tangible and visible outline Original: "Entwurff," meaning a sketch, conceptual model, or design. of how...