"The Book of Alchemy" is a wonderfully illustrated, yet brief introduction to the world of the alchemists and their ancient quest to find The Philosopher's Stone, The Elixir of Life, and Oneness with the Universe. This little book serves as a nice entry into this rather voluminous and complex material for the novice occultist or neophyte alchemist.
This book essentially gives an overview of the history of the Great Work, from its mythical origins in ancient Egypt with Hermes Trismegistus, to modern practitioners of the art today. Along the way we are treated to a miriad of beautiful color images and emblems from some of the most famous alchemical books and manuscripts. The book also gives a short introduction to some of the most famous alchemists and their quest for the Philosopher's Stone. Here we find the likes of Nicholas Flamel, Robert Fludd, Paracelsus, John Dee and even scientific giants like Issac Newton and Robert Boyle, both of whom were known to have dabbled heavily in alchemy. The book also gives insight into the archetypal imagery that pervades alchemical lore and the symbolism that hints at the secret meaning of the 'Great Work'.
This book is meant for those who may not have a deep grounding in the history of alchemy and those who are fluent in its mysteries may find it somewhat superficial. Nevertheless, it is enjoyable for anyone interested in what some have called the precusor to modern science, but even more importantly, alchemy represents the first true attempts by mankind to explore the unknown mysteries of the universe.
