Giordano Bruno and The Hermetic Tradition by Frances Yates
Publication: 1971 Routledge & Kegan Paul 2nd Impression
An extraordinary study by Frances Yates of Hermeticist-Magician Giordano Bruno, who was burned at the stake for holding opinions contrary to those of the Catholic Church. Yates presents and in-depth analysis on Brunos intellectual precursors, and his influence on both the Hermetic-Cabalist tradition and the seventeenth century scientific movement. This is widely considered Yates' most significant publication. This book was revolutionary publication mainly because Yates rejected the imposition of twentieth century mores on earlier periods. Those who studied Bruno's scientific and mathematical advances disregarded his interest in magic and mysticism, and vice versa. Yates surmounted this and showed how inseparable the two truly were. E.g., Bruno's involvement with Copernicus occurred because he needed more accurate astronomical calculations for his astrological work. Yates demonstrates the extensive overlap the Renaissance and the continued use and belief in magic. Contains many references to Bruno's English contemporary, Dr. John Dee.
Condition: Original dark green buckram cloth boards, gilt titling to spine, the dust jacket is present with some chipping along the edges,the dust jacket has done its job and preserved the book in fantastic condition, all pages are clean, binding is tight, overall in Very Good+ condition octavo 466pp