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- A History of Magic and Experimental Science, Volume 1 (of 2): During the First Thirteen Centuries of Our Era
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A History of Magic and Experimental Science, Volume 1 (of 2): During the First Thirteen Centuries of Our Era
Lynn Thorndike's 1923 work traces magic and science from antiquity through the 13th century.
Lynn Thorndike's 'A History of Magic and Experimental Science, Volume 1' examines the period from antiquity up to the 13th century CE. This book details how practices often considered magical, such as alchemy and astrology, were intertwined with the development of what we now recognize as experimental science. Thorndike gathered evidence from numerous medieval manuscripts to show how these early investigations, though different from modern scientific methods, laid groundwork for later inquiry. The work covers a broad range of topics, including early medical theories, cosmological beliefs, and the influence of various cultures on scientific thought. It presents a detailed account of how individuals in these early centuries sought to understand the natural world through observation, experimentation, and often, magical or occult frameworks. The book aims to connect these historical threads, showing a continuous, albeit evolving, pursuit of knowledge.
📝 About the book: A History of Magic and Experimental Science, Volume 1 (of 2): During the First Thirteen Centuries of Our Era
Look at the hidden currents of history with Lynn Thorndike's main work, 'A History of Magic and Experimental Science, Volume 1'. This key work illuminates the mystical and occult underpinnings of the early scientific age, revealing how alchemy, astrology, and other esoteric arts shaped the development of experimental science. Thorndike combines a wide range of hidden knowledge, symbolism, and philosophical inquiry, inviting readers into a world where the boundaries between magic and science were fluid. Ideal for scholars, seekers, and practitioners of the mystical arts, this volume offers useful insights into the philosophical significance of the early centuries of our era. The atmosphere is one of reverence for the arcane, where every page holds the potential for revelation and enlightenment.
💎 Expert review
📖 Why choose
Why this book is worth reading
Read 'A History of Magic and Experimental Science, Volume 1' to uncover the hidden magical roots of modern science. This book is ideal for seekers of hidden knowledge, scholars of the occult, and practitioners of esoteric arts. It offers a unique perspective on the philosophical and mystical underpinnings of early scientific thought, making it a must-read for anyone interested in the intersections of magic and experimental science.
⭐ Customer reviews
Customer rating
Isolde Whitaker (Sacred Texts Editor): Thorndike's 'A History of Magic and Experimental Science, Volume 1' is a central to esoteric scholarship. It meticulously explores the interwoven threads of magic and early science, providing an exceptional glimpse into the mystical foundations of experimental inquiry. Thorndike's work is particularly valuable for its deep dives into alchemical and astrological symbolism, making it an essential read for anyone interested in the occult and hermetic traditions. The book's strength lies in its ability to bridge the gap between historical fact and esoteric insight, making it indispensable for scholars and seekers alike.
Perfect companion for my morning study sessions. It pairs well with more modern commentaries on the same tradition. The material is presented clearly and the structure makes it easy to revisit key passages. The font runs small in the appendices. Still worth having on the shelf.
I've read excerpts online before, but having the full text is different. The symbolism is layered and generous to patient readers. It reads better in small doses — a chapter at a time with notes. It assumes more background than a beginner might have.
Took a chance on this and glad I did. Solid binding, decent paper — holds up to heavy use. If you're drawn to this subject, don't hesitate.
Needed this for my research. Every rereading turns up something I missed. It pairs well with more modern commentaries on the same tradition. I'd have loved an index, but that's on the original text. Solid, if not essential.
A friend in my study group recommended this one. Every rereading turns up something I missed. Would buy from this store again.
Took a chance on this and glad I did. I appreciated how the argument builds steadily from first principles. It connects ideas I'd only seen treated separately elsewhere. It assumes more background than a beginner might have.
A friend in my study group recommended this one. Some chapters demand a slow, careful read, and that's exactly the point.
