What is Mathematicall Magick?
Mathematicall Magick, or The Wonders that may be Performed by Mechanicall Geometry, is a treatise written by John Wilkins, an English clergyman, natural philosopher, and polymath. Published in 1648 in London, the work is dedicated to Charles I Louis, the Elector Palatine. The treatise consists of two books, each covering a different set of topics related to mechanics, geometry, and the natural world.
Background and Context
During the 17th century, the Scientific Revolution was in full swing, and thinkers like Galileo, Kepler, and Newton were making groundbreaking discoveries about the natural world. Mathematicall Magick, written by John Wilkins, reflects the intellectual curiosity and experimentation of this era. Wilkins, a member of the Royal Society, was deeply interested in the intersection of mathematics, science, and philosophy.
The Two Books of Mathematicall Magick
The first book of Mathematicall Magick describes traditional mechanical devices, speed, siege engines, and the modern guns of Wilkins' era. This section showcases Wilkins' understanding of mechanical engineering and his interest in applying mathematical principles to practical problems. The second book, on the other hand, explores Wilkins' theories and observations on land yachts, submarines, flying machines, and perpetual motion.
Human Aviation and the Wonders of Mathematicall Magick
One of the most fascinating aspects of Mathematicall Magick is Wilkins' vision of human aviation. He believed that, with sufficient exercise, research, and development, humans could build flying machines that would be large enough to carry several people. This idea was revolutionary for its time, and Wilkins' enthusiasm for human flight was not unique. He repeats tales about early attempts at human flight, including reports from the 16th century about Turkish flight experiments in Constantinople and Anglo-Saxon flight experiments during the reign of Edward the Confessor.
Elmerus and the Art of Gliding
Wilkins also mentions the researcher "Elmerus," who is likely Eilmer of Malmesbury, a 11th-century monk who experimented with gliding flight. Eilmer's story has become a legendary example of early attempts at human flight, and his bravery in attempting to fly from the top of a tower has inspired many artists and writers.
Mathematicall Magick and the History of Flight
Mathematicall Magick is significant not only for its vision of human aviation but also for its place in the history of flight. Wilkins' ideas about flying machines predated the work of other pioneers, such as Leonardo da Vinci and Otto Lilienthal, who also experimented with gliders and powered flight. Mathematicall Magick shows that, even in the 17th century, thinkers were exploring the possibilities of human flight, laying the groundwork for the innovations of the 20th century.
Conclusion
Mathematicall Magick is a treatise that showcases the intellectual curiosity and experimentation of the 17th century. John Wilkins' vision of human aviation and his enthusiasm for applying mathematical principles to practical problems reflect the spirit of the Scientific Revolution. While Mathematicall Magick may seem like a relic of the past, its significance lies in its contribution to the history of flight and the ongoing quest for innovation.
FAQ
What is the main topic of Mathematicall Magick? Mathematicall Magick is a treatise written by John Wilkins that covers mechanics, geometry, and the natural world, with a focus on traditional mechanical devices, speed, siege engines, and modern guns, as well as Wilkins' theories on land yachts, submarines, flying machines, and perpetual motion.
Who wrote Mathematicall Magick? John Wilkins, an English clergyman, natural philosopher, and polymath, wrote Mathematicall Magick in 1648.
What is the significance of Mathematicall Magick in the history of flight? Mathematicall Magick is significant because it showcases Wilkins' vision of human aviation, which predated the work of other pioneers like Leonardo da Vinci and Otto Lilienthal.
Who is Elmerus, mentioned in Mathematicall Magick? Elmerus is likely Eilmer of Malmesbury, an 11th-century monk who experimented with gliding flight.