73090 - History of the Scientific Thought (2) (LM) (M-Z)

Learning outcomes

The main aims of the class are: (1) to provide students with sharp intellectual tools that can be used to critically read primary and secondary sources; (2) to teach how to conduct archival and bibliographical researches, how to prepare lectures and papers for conferences, how to write different forms of academic essay.

Course contents

Title: At the Origins of Alchemy: Ancient Narratives and Modern Interpretations

The class will explore the origins and early development of the alchemical art in Graeco-Roman Egypt as well as its reception in the Arabo-Islamic and Latin world. Particular attention will be devoted to: (1) the definition of alchemy and its main ancient doctrines, related to metallic transmutation (the transformation of vile metals into gold) and to the concept of elixir; (2) the study of the historical settings that promoted popular exegetical streams (e.g. Jungian phycology) that deeply influenced common stereotypes about alchemy; (3) critical study of ancient sources and their mechanisms of transmission.

When and Where (2nd semester; February-March 2018)

Wednesday, 11-13, aula E Via Zamboni 34

Thursday, 11-13, aula XI via Zambomi 38

Friday, 15-17, aula XI via Zambomi 38

Starting date: February, 1

Readings/Bibliography

 In preparation to the exam:

(1) Michela Pereira (a cura di), Alchimia. I testi della tradizione occidentale (Milano: Mondadori/Meridiani, 2006) -- the texts to be read will be decided during the classes (or individually agreed with the teacher)

(2) Eric John Holmyard, Alchemy (Harmondsworth: Penguin Books, 1957) -- chap. 1-6.

For those who could not attend the classes: (3) an additional reading will be agreed with the professor.

Readings used during the classes:

(additional titles will be suggested in class)

Robert Halleux, Les textes alchimiques (Turnhout: Brepols, 1979)

Manfred Ullmann, Die Natur- und Gemeimwissenschaften im Islam (Leiden: Brill, 1972)

Lawrence Principe, The Secrets of Alchemy (Chicago: The University of Chicago Press, 2013)

Teaching methods

Traditional lectures about the history of ancient alchemy and its main interpretative schools;

Use of ppt slides and videos showing the laboratory work that has been carried out as a supplementary exegetical tool for ancient alchemical texts;

Relevant passages of ancient sources will be read and commented on during the classes.

Students will be encouraged to deliver short presentations on particular topics (either individually or in groups).

Assessment methods

Oral exam in which the students will be asked to (1) critically analyse the sources that have been studied during the classes; (2) discuss relevant aspects of the history of ancient alchemy

Office hours

See the website of Matteo Martelli