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74
pages
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Français
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Documents
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1996
Description
SUMMARY. — This article groups and analyzes those passages of alchemical texts from the 13th and early 14th centuries which theorize the artisan 's position with respect to nature. At the same time, it attempts to place them in their historical context. In the 13th century, transformátory procedures (such as the fabrication of glass) underwent considerable development, thus raising the problem of transmutation of species, which was, in principle, considered to be the prerogative of nature or divinity. The alchemist's prétention to be able to produce gold that is equivalent to the natural substance also, appears to undermine the ancient conception of art as inferior to nature. However, when justifying their activity, defenders of the alchemical art do not go so far as to claim an inversion of the art-nature relationship. Rather, they exploit and adapt to their needs those theories that allow them to pose as nature's servants, which start, accelerate or complete natural processes. Although this implies a considerable extension of their sphere of action, the conception of nature as an organic whole is not questioned. The artisan may interfere with natural processes, but he is not nature's substitute.
72 pages
Source : Persée ; Ministère de la jeunesse, de l’éducation nationale et de la recherche, Direction de l’enseignement supérieur, Sous-direction des bibliothèques et de la documentation.
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Publié par
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Publié le
01 janvier 1996
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Langue
Français
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Poids de l'ouvrage
5 Mo