Alchemy and Natural Magic: The Birth of European Science
TU Bergakademie Freiberg
- Upcoming events
This interdisciplinary course examines the foundations of science and engineering through the historical lenses of alchemy, natural philosophy, and magic in Europe. Aimed primarily at students with a technical background, it traces the evolution of scientific thought from ancient traditions to early modern science, highlighting how alchemists, natural philosophers, and even occultists contributed to the principles underpinning today’s scientific and engineering disciplines.
Through engagement with primary texts, encounters with influential figures, and discussions of landmark experiments, participants will explore the interplay of mysticism, experimentation, and technical innovation that shaped early scientific inquiry. The course deepens understanding of the cultural, philosophical, and technological legacy that paved the way for modern engineering, while also offering insight into public expectations of science and technology in historical context.
Although the course is tailored for Master and PhD students it is also open to the public.
Key information
- Course Start Date: 20 October 2025
- Learners who wish to participate synchronously, attend the live online lectures and get 3 ECTS are invited to join from this date.
- The course will also be offered in an asynchronous format, allowing participants to complete it at their own pace.
Registration for the asynchronous mode remains open until the end of the course.
Lecture Schedule
Lecture Schedule
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Weekly lectures, starting 20 October 2025
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Week 1 (20–26 October)
An Introduction to Alchemy
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Week 2 (27 October – 2 November)
Magic and Magical Thought: The Essentials
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Week 3 (3–9 November)
What does Astrology have to do with Medicine?
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Week 4 (10–16 November)
Philosophical Foundations of Alchemy: Elements, Principles, and the Philosopher’s Stone
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Week 5 (17–23 November)
Alchemy and the Artisans: Metallurgy, Glass, and Mining Technologies
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Week 6 (24–30 November)
Natural Magic and the Rise of Experimental Science
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Week 7 (1–7 December)
Hermeticism, Mysticism, Occult and the Shaping of Natural Philosophy
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Week 8 (8–14 December)
Alchemy, Medicine, and Iatrochemistry: From Paracelsus to Chemical Healing
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Week 9 (15–21 December)
Knowledge in Practice: Books of Secrets, Laboratories, and Early Engineering
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Week 10 (5–11 January)
From Alchemy to Chemistry: Boyle, Lavoisier, and the Scientific Revolution
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Week 11 (12–18 January)
The Cultural Legacy of Alchemy and Magic in Europe
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Week 12 (19–25 January)
Alchemy, Natural Magic, and the Birth of Modern Science: Reflections and Conclusions
- Note: The exact lecture dates will be announced in advance during the preceding session.
