A Subtle Allegory: Concerning the Secrets of Alchemy

by Michael Maier, Tarl Warwick (Editor)

Michael Maier is one of the foremost names within the corpus of alchemical literature. This short tract, written in the late 17th century, proposes a short story regarding the phoenix as the answer to the riddle of alchemy. Instructing the reader thus through metaphor and veil, Maier hopes to allow those with the wisdom to understand the content to practice this art for spiritual and medicinal purposes. The occult trappings of this work are quite fantastical.

Genres: Philosophy

34 pages, Paperback

First published June 1, 1984

About the author

Michael Maier was a physician, alchemist, and amateur composer who served as counselor to Holy Roman Emperor Rudolf II Habsburg. His writings were a significant influence on Elias Ashmole and Isaac Newton.