Alchemy and Natural Magic: The Birth of European Science

Lecturer: Dr. Apostolos Gerontas (TU Bergakademie Freiberg)
ECTS: 3
Start date: To be confirmed for the WS2026

All EURECA-PRO supplementary modules are hosted and supported on the EURECA-PRO Moodle LMS.

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.