The Philosopher's Stone: A Quest for the Secrets of Alchemy

by Peter H. Marshall

Following such luminaries as Newton, Jung, St. Thomas Aquinas and Zosimus, who devoted most of their lives to searching for the Philosopher's Stone, Peter Marshall set out to unearth the secrets of alchemy in the lands where it was traditionally practiced. The result is a fascinating piece of historical, scientific and philosophical detection, as well as an exciting physical and spiritual adventure. Exploring the beliefs and practices, the myths and the symbols of the alchemists, Peter Marshall takes us on an enthralling journey into this arcane world.

Genres: Alchemy, History, Science, Occult, Nonfiction, Philosophy

545 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2001

About the author

Peter Hugh Marshall (born 23 August 1946, Bognor Regis, England) is an English philosopher, historian, biographer, travel writer and poet. He has written fifteen books which are being translated into fourteen different languages. He wrote, presented and partly filmed the 6-part HTV series 'Voyage Around Africa', first shown in 1994. He also wrote and presented the two-part series 'Celtic Gold: A Voyage around Ireland' for BBC Radio Wales in 1995, which later became a book.

Reviews

[Michael Graeme · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fascinating and compellingly written introdution to alchemy - both eastern and western. Peter Marshall recounts an inner and an outer, physical journey around the world, uncovering the history, the "secrets" and the meaning of the hermetic art. There are about 450 pages of info here, all impressively referenced. This is a book I first read about five years ago, and which I still dip into. From the mystery of the perfectly preserved body of Lady Tai, who died in 186 BC to a latter day Antiquarian book shop in Prague, Marshalls story intrigues and mystifies. I enjoyed it very much and gained a real understading from it. There are lots of works on alchemy, very few of which have made sense to me, but I found this to be an approachable and sincere attempt to get to the bottom of it. Of course there are no clear answers - for that you'll have to become an alchemist yourself but that's a path few are made for.

Highly recommended.

[Bart Hendrix · Rating 3 out of 5]

Fine introduction to the historical and present practice of alchemy worldwide. The more encyclopedic chapters are alternated with light reflections. I particularly liked the first part of the book dealing with Chinese and Egyptian alchemy. The part about Europe wasn't such a joy to read: too many, for the story, insignificant names and works, while the search for spiritual enlightenment by the author seems to come to a dead end. The back of the book said there would be a 'shocking conclusion' in the end.. must have missed out on it.

[ephe mere · Rating 1 out of 5]

Horrific to read. It’s not really my field though

[Mel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really interesting!!

[Kevin Weedon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I want to read it again, but lost my copy, damnit. Thank goodness for AbeBooks, who may well come to my rescue for the umpteenth time.

[Katherine Coble]

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