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History of Philosophy Without Any Gaps
HoP 437 - Jennifer Rampling on Renaissance Alchemy
Jan 21, 2024
Jennifer Rampling, an expert on Renaissance alchemy, discusses alchemical practices in 16th century England, including its sponsorship by Queen Elizabeth I and William Cecil. She explores the process of citrination, the fusion of ideas between quintessence and Ficino's spiritus Mundi, and the defense against accusations of ritual magic. Rampling also delves into the relationship between alchemy and philosophy, the influence of Paracelsus, and the phenomenon of darkness becoming bright in alchemy.
34:59
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Quick takeaways
- Alchemy in the Renaissance garnered interest and royal patronage due to its potential funding and medicinal benefits, similar to the enthusiasm for voyages to the New World based on the possibility of finding gold.
- Alchemy in the 16th century required practitioners to obtain licenses demonstrating their knowledge of the philosophical aspects of the practice, positioning themselves as philosophers and relying on expertise in reading and interpreting obscure alchemical texts.
Deep dives
Alchemy in England and its growing popularity
During the 16th century, alchemy became the subject of conversation and received royal patronage in England. This shift in attention and interest was due to its potential as a source of funding and its medicinal applications. Even skeptics became intrigued due to the potential benefits. The interest in alchemy can be compared to the voyages to the New World, where the possibility of finding gold led to investments, despite the uncertainty of success.
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