Alchemy and Alchemists (Pocket Essential series) [Paperback]

Sean Martin (Author)

Book Description

Series: Pocket Essential series | Publication Date: June 1, 2001

Pocket Essentials is a dynamic series of books that are concise, lively, and easy to read. Packed with facts as well as expert opinions, each book has all the key information you need to know about such popular topics as film, television, cult fiction, history, and more. Often alchemy is seen as an example of medieval gullibility and the alchemists as a collection of eccentrics and superstitious fools. In this Pocket Essential, Sean Martin shows that nothing could be further from the truth. It is important to see the search for the philosopher's stone and the attempts to turn base metal into gold as metaphors for the relation of man to nature and man to God as much as seriously held beliefs. Sir Isaac Newton devoted as much time to his alchemical studies as he did to his mathematical ones. This book traces the history of alchemy from ancient times to the 20th century, highlighting the interest of modern thinkers like Jung in the subject. It covers a major, if neglected area of Western thought.

Editorial Reviews

From the Publisher

Pocket Essentials is a dynamic series of books that are short, snappy, and easy to read. Packed with facts as well as opinions, each book has all the key information you need to know about such popular topics as film, television, cult fiction, politics, and more. In addition to an introduction to the subject, each topic is individually analyzed and reviewed, examining its impact on popular culture or history. There¹s also a reference section that lists related web sites and weightier (and more expensive) books on the subject. For media buffs and students, these are great entry-level books that build into an essential library.

About the Author

Sean Martin worked in the book trade for many years. He is now a writer and film-maker with a particular interest in the history and symbolism of alchemy. He has just directed his first feature film, Mystery Play.

Product Details

• Paperback: 78 pages
• Publisher: Pocket Essentials (June 1, 2001)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1903047528
• ISBN-13: 978-1903047521
• Product Dimensions: 6.6 x 4.3 x 0.4 inches
• Shipping Weight: 2.1 ounces
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #4,775,379 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

More About the Author

Sean Martin was born in Somerset, England, and now lives in Edinburgh, Scotland. He is the author of the bestsellers The Knights Temlpar: The History & Myths of the Legendary Military Order and The Cathars: The Most Successful Heresy of the Middle Ages. He has appeared on the History Channel and National Geographic, amongst others.