SnitchSeeker.com - Introduction to Alchemy

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- Term 31: May - August 2012 (https://www.snitchseeker.com/term-31-may-august-2012/)

- - Introduction to Alchemy (https://www.snitchseeker.com/term-31-may-august-2012/introduction-to-alchemy-89842/)

Quote:

Originally Posted by Tegz (Post 11057994)

"Given what we've already discussed, and what you personally know, what other connections can you think of between Astrology and Alchemy? And, if anyone has any questions on the information presented so far, now is the time to ask."

...

They were talking about Astrology now?

If Nora's head has been spinning, she was totally and completely lost this time. Alchemy... Astrology... So many names that she couldn't even repeat after her... All she could do was be silent, take notes and write everything down from the board. Even trying to follow the discussions seemed like a challenge.

Connections between Astrology and Alchemy? She might know something about that. "They have both been linked throughout history or time," she said after raising her hand. "One of the core elements used is the concept of timing, by both Alchemy and Astrology." Did that make sense? Yes? No? "They are also concerned with ingredients and operations, as Astrology uses the study of the energy of the planets and its impact on Earth, and Alchemy is concerned with turning metals into gold with required steps and operations." Pfff.

So Ella hadn't been wrong when suggesting sulfur had something to do with the sun. That was a relief, and a shock to be honest. The second year took notes on the rest as it was all new information to her and in actuality, quite confusing. The entire section on Spagyrics went a little bit over her head...but just a little. Perhaps she was over her head in here, though it was too late to leave now. She glance over at Nate and Minnie, wondering if they were following any of this.

As the notes continued, Ella was surprised to hear that alchemy and astrology had a connection. She found this curious and tried to think of some other ways they might be related. After a little while, the second year raised her hand. "Uh Professor, maybe since the alchemists related some metals to planets they needed the planets to like-be in a good place in order for their work to work properly?" To be quite honest, even Ella was a little confused at her suggestion but she knew what she meant to say. Just not how to put it simply.

Well Nigel thought at least he was positive now that mercury was poisonous. So why did they use it in alchemy. "Professor since mercury is poisonous, why did they use it since they could die from being exposed to it?

While waiting to get an answer he started taking notes of all the professor had just said. He was still lost about all the other stuff such as connections between Astrology and Alchemy. Nigel did not even understand alchemy. He also did not even know the first thing about astronomy yet. He was SO lost. So he stayed quiet and continued taking notes and waiting to hear an answer to his question.

Justin still had no idea what was being taught.... This was so confusing to him. He didn't understand what astronomy had to do with alchemy...

Sophie finally started to wonder why she came to this seminar. Nothing was making a lot of sense to her and she was even losing track of what professor Schirmer was saying. Also, that subject sounded like she had to do a lot of reading, and that was something she didn't like doing all that much.

Professor Schirmer was still talking when Sophie looked down at the cool looking objects in front of her. She couldn't touch them, so she just staaaared at them, no even listening to what people were saying now.

She did hear, though, the mention of planets and whatnot and giggled when she heard that Mercury ruled Mercury. That was a funny statement.

This was far more complicated then Charlit expected, she contemplated the connections between planets and alchemy. Raising her hand to answer the question, she spoke. "Well, since certain metals are asocciated with certain planets, it would probly help to work with a certain metal at the time it's corrosponding planet is in good condition. Like say we wanted to use Mercury, the best time to use Mercury would be when the planet mercury is strong.".

Alchemy is doing flybys over my head, but it's still fun xD

Text Cut: Alchemy Seminar Journal

Alyssa blinked. 'Astrology and Alchemy are connected in some way?' Alyssa thought to herself. She quickly referred to her textbook again to see what other connections both subjects had with each other that weren't alread mentioned by the other students.

Alyssa discovered something she never knew and raised her hand to ask a question."Professor is it true that the famous Mathematician, Sir Isaac Newton was also interested in Alchemy but he used it mainly for his studies in the Occult?"

"And that Carl Jung, the founder of Analytical Psychology believed that the study of Alchemy and Astrology was connected with the human psyche and how the application of both helped in the spiritual and psychological development of the individual?" Alyssa paused to think before finding the connection.

"Could this be another connection that Alchemy and Astrology have with each other? The use of both are used in the treatment called Psychological Astrology to treat psychological behaviors?" Alyssa paused before clarifying what she was saying.

"I mean there is strong justification that the position of the moon affects the behavior of a person, and since Alchemy is a combination of physics, chemistry, metallurgy, medicine, astrology and the mystic sciences, it just makes sense why it would be used to help heal the human psyche too."

Quote:

Originally Posted by Tegz (Post 11057994)

Althea addressed the class as a whole again, though she hoped they'd been paying some attention to what their classmates had been saying, and what she'd said in response too.

"In alchemical terms, all things are composed of three parts- Sulphur , Mercury, and Salt. The alchemist separates and recombines these three cardinal principles as often as necessary until they are in perfect proportion and harmony, and the raw material has been reduced to its purest essence."

The words appeared on the board as she spoke.

"Mercury is the principle of fusibility and volatility. It represents water element and the life force of the raw material." This went up on the board too.

Salt is the principle of fixity and incombustibility, it represents earth element and the physical body. Sulphur is the principle of flammability, it represents fire element and represents the soul or individualized essence of being."

She waited some to give a chance to copy the notes.

"Working with plants, or Spagyrics, is known as the Lesser Circulation, while pursuing Alchemical mastery of metals and minerals is called the Greater Circulation. The word 'Spagyrics' itself, comes from the Greek spao 'to tear open', and ageiro 'to collect'. It basically means 'separate and recombine'. Paracelsus first coined the term." Well and they were used to hearing about words that came from Greek, from incantations. Greek and...

"Another term is 'Solve et Coagula', which is Latin for 'dissolve and coagulate'. The meanings are clearly related." And they weren't stupid. No. They weren't.

It went up on the board.

"Mr. Montmorency brought up some good points and we'll touch on that now. There is a relationship between Alchemy and Astrology.The classical planets, those visible to the naked eye, provide a link between Alchemy and Astrology. These seven planets are linked to particular metals used in Alchemy. The Sun rules Gold, The Moon rules Silver, Mercury rules Mercury Venus rules Copper, Mars rules Iron, Jupiter rules Tin and Saturn rules Lead."

She'd add that to the board soon.

"The symbols for each of those planets appear in Alchemy too. I need a volunteer to hand out some worksheets please." Althea requested.

"Given what we've already discussed, and what you personally know, what other connections can you think of between Astrology and Alchemy? And, if anyone has any questions on the information presented so far, now is the time to ask."

OOC: Eeek that took longer than I intended to post 'cos you guys are awesome and all that. I'll take the FIRST person to volunteer to hand out the worksheets - not something that will earn points by the way, so don't fret if it isn't you.

If you can think of some other connections between Astrology and Alchemy, do share them with professor Schirmer. I'll continue the lesson properly as soon as I've judged enough people have responded, but I will be posting again to reply to the volunteer in the meantime.

The Astrology/Alchemy relationship stuff will be added to the notes after this round of answers! Have fun and can't wait to see more O_O faces and hear some interesting answers. ~~As usual if I missed you while writing this, I'll edit you in :)~~ edit in done :)

Belle was glad her answer was right. She heard the professor adding more information to the board and copied it down in her noteboook.

SPOILER!!: Annabelle's Notes

After Belle was done copying down the notes, her hand cramped up and she was exhausted. "Professor can we slow a little bit, my hands are starting to cramp from all this note taking." She didn't want to sound rude but at least she was being honest.

She opened her mouth to speak, closed it, opened it again, and snapped it shut with half of a poorly formed word left lingering in the air, for her ears only probably. Isidora knew planets, and was doing her BEST to understand this alchemy stuff. She really was! All she wanted to do was give some semblance of a good response like so many students were doing.

But it was HARD.

How did they know all this stuff anyway? She would think harder than all her other classes combined, but really they weren't really hard AT ALL when she was sitting here... listening to all this.

And add stuff to her growing list.

It was getting ridiculously long.

SPOILER!!: The Professor..

Quote:

Originally Posted by Tegz (Post 11056389)

"Yes that is right, The goal is to change the base metals into the noble metals."

Once she'd addressed all the student answers, Althea began to speak, providing more information.

"I think you can all see already that there is much within the pursuit of Alchemy, that even simplified it is complex field. Aside from the detailed symbolic meanings, which must be studied in order to gain an understanding of the processes involved in Alchemy, there are a lot of new words and terms that you'll come across too which have meanings specific to Alchemy. For instance we've already mentioned The Panacea, The Alkahest, and chrysopoeia, the Philosophers Stone and the Elixir of Life, and that is just in response to the simple question of the purpose of Alchemy." As Althea spoke, the charmed blackboard provided a few notes.
[/COLOR][/INDENT]

SPOILER!!: The blackboard

"So, to recap, the goals of the Alchemist are to find the panacea, find the alkahest and to transmute base metals into gold or other noble metals. Philosophical and spiritual concerns are often important to the Alchemist while pursuing these goals." But they weren't actually necessary.

"Another term which you should familiarise yourself is 'Azoth'. The Azoth is another term which combines the Panacea and the Alkahest in that it is a possible universal medicine, universal solvent, or Elixir of Life. It serves as the essential agent of alchemical transformation, and embodies the concept of all of these main goals in Alchemy. It is arguably the quintessence of Alchemy."

"One of the specific subfields of Alchemy is that of Spagyrics, or plant Alchemy. Spagyrics is the production of herbal medicines using alchemical techniques such as fermentation, distillation and the extraction of mineral components from the ash of a plant. Spagyric remedies rely on the three cardinal principles of Alchemy: salt, sulfur and mercury." Althea paused for people to catch up on notes and glanced towards the door.

"What do you all know about these cardinal principles? What are they? What do they mean?"

Quote:

Originally Posted by Tegz (Post 11057994)

Yes she could see the looks of confusion some of them sported. What did they expect? There was a reason this was usually a subject only offered to NEWT level students, and only the very best of them at that. Good thing she was keeping it simple then, hmmm?

Althea addressed the class as a whole again, though she hoped they'd been paying some attention to what their classmates had been saying, and what she'd said in response too.

"In alchemical terms, all things are composed of three parts- Sulphur , Mercury, and Salt. The alchemist separates and recombines these three cardinal principles as often as necessary until they are in perfect proportion and harmony, and the raw material has been reduced to its purest essence."

The words appeared on the board as she spoke.

"Mercury is the principle of fusibility and volatility. It represents water element and the life force of the raw material." This went up on the board too.

Salt is the principle of fixity and incombustibility, it represents earth element and the physical body. Sulphur is the principle of flammability, it represents fire element and represents the soul or individualized essence of being."

She waited some to give a chance to copy the notes.

"Working with plants, or Spagyrics, is known as the Lesser Circulation, while pursuing Alchemical mastery of metals and minerals is called the Greater Circulation. The word 'Spagyrics' itself, comes from the Greek spao 'to tear open', and ageiro 'to collect'. It basically means 'separate and recombine'. Paracelsus first coined the term." Well and they were used to hearing about words that came from Greek, from incantations. Greek and...

"Another term is 'Solve et Coagula', which is Latin for 'dissolve and coagulate'. The meanings are clearly related." And they weren't stupid. No. They weren't.

It went up on the board.

"Mr. Montmorency brought up some good points and we'll touch on that now. There is a relationship between Alchemy and Astrology.The classical planets, those visible to the naked eye, provide a link between Alchemy and Astrology. These seven planets are linked to particular metals used in Alchemy. The Sun rules Gold, The Moon rules Silver, Mercury rules Mercury Venus rules Copper, Mars rules Iron, Jupiter rules Tin and Saturn rules Lead."

She'd add that to the board soon.

"The symbols for each of those planets appear in Alchemy too. I need a volunteer to hand out some worksheets please." Althea requested.

"Given what we've already discussed, and what you personally know, what other connections can you think of between Astrology and Alchemy? And, if anyone has any questions on the information presented so far, now is the time to ask." [/COLOR][/INDENT]
OOC: Eeek that took longer than I intended to post 'cos you guys are awesome and all that. I'll take the FIRST person to volunteer to hand out the worksheets - not something that will earn points by the way, so don't fret if it isn't you.

If you can think of some other connections between Astrology and Alchemy, do share them with professor Schirmer. I'll continue the lesson properly as soon as I've judged enough people have responded, but I will be posting again to reply to the volunteer in the meantime.

The Astrology/Alchemy relationship stuff will be added to the notes after this round of answers! Have fun and can't wait to see more O_O faces and hear some interesting answers. ~~As usual if I missed you while writing this, I'll edit you in :)~~ edit in done :)

Woah. Desiree's head was spinning, almost literally as she would jot down her notes, then back up to the board again, and back to the notes. Her neck was even a little sore. She really wanted to understand, but it was too much to take in at one time. She figured it just had to sink in, and sometime soon, like while she's eating lunch tomorrow or something it will just hit her, and she'll suddenly be an expert in Alchemy.

But until then she just let the other students answer, since her first answer was only a lucky guess. She scribbled furiously on her paper trying to write and process it at the same time.

SPOILER!!: Desiree's Notes

OK so she did get that certain metals coincided with certain planets. But what other connections would Alchemy and Astrology have? Those two sounded too similar she was definitely going to get them confused. Maybe Alchemy had something to do with the formation of the planets? It actually didn't sound like a bad idea, but she decided to wait and see.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Tegz (Post 11057994)

Althea listened and nodding. "Yes they are, but the expansion to seven and then eight is related to Abu Mūsā Jābir ibn Hayyān, a Persian Alchemist often referred to as Geber. We'll touch on some famous historical Alchemists soon."

"The symbols for each of those planets appear in Alchemy too. I need a volunteer to hand out some worksheets please." Althea requested.

"Given what we've already discussed, and what you personally know, what other connections can you think of between Astrology and Alchemy? And, if anyone has any questions on the information presented so far, now is the time to ask." [/COLOR][/INDENT]

Nerida smiled she had more or less been right and thought outside of the box too. Alchemy and Astrology...Werent their purposes the same? ~~They both began with an A~~ Arent their purposes alike, they want to purify the soul...They are often associated together a lot. She glanced down at her notes, there were a lot but that was good...

SPOILER!!: Extremly long notes!

So... Lily had no idea how she was going to keep up with all the information being sent at her. But she did her best taking detailed notes, while trying to understand anything that the professor was saying, especially with the alchemy/astrology thing. There was just waaaay to much information given in such a short time frame that Lily just couldn't process it all.

But moving on, the professor asked if they had questions, or had any more connections between alchemy and astrology. After thinking for a second, the second year put her hand in the air. "Just a small side question, so do the three parts, or sulfur, mercury, and salt, do they share qualities in alchemy like the elements or compounds do in chemistry?" Because, you know, salt does indeed come from the earth...mercury was typically in liquid state thus like water... and sulfur... well, Lily didn't know all that much about sulfur.

Minerva was at the point that she had no clue what was going on. She just kept writing notes in her parchment. She wished they were back in charms at least she understood what was going on in there. This on the other hand was so far over her head she wouldn't see it with the telescope.

So she wasn't completely off topic when she mentioned what the elements were. Phew. But the rest of that information just kind of flew over her head. Emmanuelle copied down the notes, despite not even beginning to understand any of it. And the professor asked about any other connections between Alchemy and Astrology besides the planets. She just kept silent, listening to her classmates answers and questions ('cause she couldn't think of any that wouldn't make her look like she hadn't been paying attention).

Jory raised his hand. "Er... each planet governs various metals, Professor. So, maybe if we wanted to work with a particular metal, it would be best to work with that metal when the corresponding planet is in a favourable position,'' he said hoping his response made sense.

SPOILER!!: Schirmer

Quote:

Originally Posted by Tegz (Post 11057994)

Yes she could see the looks of confusion some of them sported. What did they expect? There was a reason this was usually a subject only offered to NEWT level students, and only the very best of them at that. Good thing she was keeping it simple then, hmmm?

SPOILER!!: responses to those of you that answered/spoke/needed some kind of acknowledgement

More sense than he realised perhaps. Althea nodded encouragingly and even smiled as he continued. Yes.

"The Midas touch is also an example of chrysopoeia." Althea answered. "And many believe that in fact Midas was an Alchemist and the story of his golden touch is a metaphor for the Alchemical pursuit of chrysopoeia and that the moral lesson in his story was directed at those who were consumed with the lure of Gold, and with the desire to create it."

She responded to the rest of what the young Slytherin had said, deviating a little from the lesson plan in order to do so.

"Actually Astrology and Alchemy are interrelated in many ways. Each of the planets has an Alchemical sign, and is associated with a different metal. The Sun rules Gold, The Moon rules Silver, Mercury rules Mercury Venus rules Copper, Mars rules Iron, Jupiter rules Tin and Saturn rules Lead. Additionally, the zodiac signs are divided into something called Quadruplicities, which are Fixed, Mutable and Cardinal: which in turn reflects the Cardinal principles by nature, as I hope you'll see as we go on. Likewise the four elements which the zodiac signs fall under, are very relevant to Alchemy and symbols exist for those too, and each is related to an Alchemical process, which we'll talk about shortly."

She should probably add this to the board. Hmm. Or come back to it and address it for the whole class to consider. Yes, she'd do that.

"And as for the wine-making, that's good. Hopefully you'll see some more similarities and concepts which you can associate with more mundane pursuits." Though Althea would hardly call a good glass of wine mundane.

Nod.

"Yes, they are Miss Wheatborn. With Salt as Sodium. Its useful to know their chemical properties."

The professor listened to Kurumi and nodded. "That's right, Miss Hollingberry."

"Mr Jones, do not trial my patience. 5 points from Hufflepuff for talking in class and distracting others. You will not talk in this lesson unless it is to discuss the topic at hand or to ask me questions about the topic of Alchemy." Althea said sternly. Really. It was bad enough when people had done so in her Charms lesson. She was busier now and hadn't just come along for fun.

Much.

"That's right, it does. Its the connection to the fire element." Professor Schirmer answered.

"Yes, very." The professor nodded at the Ravenclaw boy.

"Right, Mr.Vickers. Perhaps you can see the connection between Sulfur, Mercury, and Salt, and the Cardinal, Fixed, and Mutable Quadruplicities found in Astrology? Those and the elemental representations of course. And yes, they are broken down and recombined as required, that is the essence of the Alchemical process." Just to confirm. Clearly this was a Ravenclaw who had done a bit of reading.

"Simplified but correct. Everything can be reduced to those three alchemical principles, all else is considered waste. The salt, the mercury, and the sulphur of any one substance is what the Alchemists use." Althea said.

Teaching at Hogwarts wouldn't be complete without Dash Scabior invading her lesson at least once a term. And since this was the only lesson she was to teach this year, it wasn't such a surprise. And too she'd made sure he'd known about it, since after all much of what would be discussed was a particular portion of magical history. So that made sense and all. And she'd expected him to come.

But still... he should have come on time. At least he had the sense to be quiet when he came in. He wasn't going to sit down? Well he could suit himself, as long as he kept his mouth shut and didn't interrupt student learning.

Possibly, she returned his smile and continued on with addressing the student responses, without missing a beat.

"Yes that's right." Althea assured the girl.

Althea nodded. "You're right and that is some good thinking. It sounds as if you have a strong understanding of this aspect of Alchemy already. Maybe you can help some of your classmates review afterward, if they are still having trouble grasping it."

That was good thinking, turning to a textbook. Althea nodded. "Yes thank you Miss Potter."

"A good start." Althea answered. Knowing those things helped understand the more difficult concepts after all.

"You know a bit about chemistry I see." Althea nodded encouragingly.

"In a way yes. Actually if you took.... say some sprigs of rosemary, you'd separate out the three components that represent the mercury, the sulfur and the salt, and then, having acquired the pure form of each of these, they are recombined as needed so that you have the the essential value of the rosemary sprigs, the most magical and medicinal part of the whole." So she wasn't wrong, and hopefully she'd leave with a more thorough understanding.

Althea listened and nodding. "Yes they are, but the expansion to seven and then eight is related to Abu Mūsā Jābir ibn Hayyān, a Persian Alchemist often referred to as Geber. We'll touch on some famous historical Alchemists soon."

Althea addressed the class as a whole again, though she hoped they'd been paying some attention to what their classmates had been saying, and what she'd said in response too.

"In alchemical terms, all things are composed of three parts- Sulphur , Mercury, and Salt. The alchemist separates and recombines these three cardinal principles as often as necessary until they are in perfect proportion and harmony, and the raw material has been reduced to its purest essence."

The words appeared on the board as she spoke.

"Mercury is the principle of fusibility and volatility. It represents water element and the life force of the raw material." This went up on the board too.

Salt is the principle of fixity and incombustibility, it represents earth element and the physical body. Sulphur is the principle of flammability, it represents fire element and represents the soul or individualized essence of being."

She waited some to give a chance to copy the notes.

"Working with plants, or Spagyrics, is known as the Lesser Circulation, while pursuing Alchemical mastery of metals and minerals is called the Greater Circulation. The word 'Spagyrics' itself, comes from the Greek spao 'to tear open', and ageiro 'to collect'. It basically means 'separate and recombine'. Paracelsus first coined the term." Well and they were used to hearing about words that came from Greek, from incantations. Greek and...

"Another term is 'Solve et Coagula', which is Latin for 'dissolve and coagulate'. The meanings are clearly related." And they weren't stupid. No. They weren't.

It went up on the board.

"Mr. Montmorency brought up some good points and we'll touch on that now. There is a relationship between Alchemy and Astrology.The classical planets, those visible to the naked eye, provide a link between Alchemy and Astrology. These seven planets are linked to particular metals used in Alchemy. The Sun rules Gold, The Moon rules Silver, Mercury rules Mercury Venus rules Copper, Mars rules Iron, Jupiter rules Tin and Saturn rules Lead."

She'd add that to the board soon.

"The symbols for each of those planets appear in Alchemy too. I need a volunteer to hand out some worksheets please." Althea requested.

"Given what we've already discussed, and what you personally know, what other connections can you think of between Astrology and Alchemy? And, if anyone has any questions on the information presented so far, now is the time to ask."

Vickers continued scribbling on his parchment diligently, adding the notes that went up on the board. He listened to what the other students mentioned about additional connections between Astrology and Alchemy. He really didnt have much to add, other than Alchemy looked to make things more tangible on a local scale versus Astrology.

Did he have a question? Well only one "Are you coming back to teach Alchemy next year?" Because he'd love a part deux.

SPOILER!!: Oakey's notes

Oakey managed to add the next portion of notes quickly and listened again to Schirmer's Question comparing the two toughest subjects. Oakey mind couldn't handle both Alchemy and Astrology, his head would explode. Setting his quill down he rubbed his fingers on his temples to keep a headache at bay. He wanted to stay focused incase anything fun happened in this seminar.

There were a LOT of notes in this class. Silvia hoped she could keep up with all of it. She was still writing when some of the students began to give their answers. When she finally finished, she looked up from her parchment and took a moment to contemplate the question. Connections between astrology and alchemy? Um...well...maybe...nope, she didn't know. Silvia liked astrology, but she really didn't know enough about it or alchemy to think of any connections.

Spike was well and truly lost. He glanced round the room, wondering if anyone else was following, because he'd been dropped by the wayside looong ago. He kept zoning in and out between sulphur (which he knew as the stuff that smelt like rotten eggs) and mercury (wasn't that found in thermometers?) and planets (poor Pluto...).

He perked up at the mention of Astrology with Alchemy. What did the world of space have to do with the essence of life and turning things into gold. Honestly, he had no idea...but he could make fun guesses, right?! Just to show he was still awake and trying to concentrate?

"Moon rocks!" he exclaimed excitedly. Surely things that fell of the sky and were all 'other-worldly' were worth investigating for this holy grail of alchemy?

...Yes, he was blissfully unaware that he was thinking of Astronomy rather than the Astrology the question asked for.

Text Cut: Bubbles

Sierra looked up from her notes and took a quick breather. MERLIN. She'd barely understood a single word since the lesson had begun, but her quill was steadily moving. Well, not right now, but she had to breathe, too. That was when she happened to look around the room and catch Kennedy looking at her with a smirk upon his face. For some reason, it made her smile, and she had to bite her bottom lip to keep from laughing.

Shaking her head, she looked back down at her notes and got to writing again.

Text Cut: Tegz

...wait. She got a yes? A YES?! She didn't even remember what she'd just said, but she'd gotten a YES. Just to look like she understood it all and was really following along, Sierra nodded a few times. It was that kind of nod people do when they know exactly what the other person is talking about.

...only, Sierra didn't know what Schirmer was on about.

Text Cut: Tegz

Quote:

Originally Posted by Tegz (Post 11057994)

Althea addressed the class as a whole again, though she hoped they'd been paying some attention to what their classmates had been saying, and what she'd said in response too.

"In alchemical terms, all things are composed of three parts- Sulphur , Mercury, and Salt. The alchemist separates and recombines these three cardinal principles as often as necessary until they are in perfect proportion and harmony, and the raw material has been reduced to its purest essence."

The words appeared on the board as she spoke.

"Mercury is the principle of fusibility and volatility. It represents water element and the life force of the raw material." This went up on the board too.

Salt is the principle of fixity and incombustibility, it represents earth element and the physical body. Sulphur is the principle of flammability, it represents fire element and represents the soul or individualized essence of being."

She waited some to give a chance to copy the notes.

"Working with plants, or Spagyrics, is known as the Lesser Circulation, while pursuing Alchemical mastery of metals and minerals is called the Greater Circulation. The word 'Spagyrics' itself, comes from the Greek spao 'to tear open', and ageiro 'to collect'. It basically means 'separate and recombine'. Paracelsus first coined the term." Well and they were used to hearing about words that came from Greek, from incantations. Greek and...

"Another term is 'Solve et Coagula', which is Latin for 'dissolve and coagulate'. The meanings are clearly related." And they weren't stupid. No. They weren't.

It went up on the board.

"Mr. Montmorency brought up some good points and we'll touch on that now. There is a relationship between Alchemy and Astrology.The classical planets, those visible to the naked eye, provide a link between Alchemy and Astrology. These seven planets are linked to particular metals used in Alchemy. The Sun rules Gold, The Moon rules Silver, Mercury rules Mercury Venus rules Copper, Mars rules Iron, Jupiter rules Tin and Saturn rules Lead."

She'd add that to the board soon.

"The symbols for each of those planets appear in Alchemy too. I need a volunteer to hand out some worksheets please." Althea requested.

"Given what we've already discussed, and what you personally know, what other connections can you think of between Astrology and Alchemy? And, if anyone has any questions on the information presented so far, now is the time to ask."

*bliiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiink*

There was no nodding along this time. Sierra couldn't even remember to nod. She was also to afraid if she did so the professor would ask her to elaborate. Then what?!

What was a connection between Astrology and Alchemy. Err, they both begn with the letter A and ending in y? That was about as far as she got with thinking that one through.

Ugh I am sorry this took so long. I did this post three times and lost it >.>

SPOILER!!: responses

Quote:

Originally Posted by sweetpinkpixie (Post 11057996)

Uh....Questions? Like...could Professor Schirmer say that all again and pause after every sentence? Kurumi took down notes as carefully as she could, but there was just far too much to process right now and Kurumi settled for just jotting down a general outline of the points that had been addressed. All those specifics...yeah, she would just do like what some younger students were doing and read it in a textbook. For now, Kurumi would just rely on what she knew and what she was hearing...which was mostly just confusing her, but so be it.

Still, Kurumi DID perk up a little bit when Professor Schrimer acknowledge her answer and used that glorious word 'right' when addressing her. Made her not feel AS subconscious about all this as she really was.

"I can help, professor," Kurumi said as she raised her hand. Because her questions, yeah, she would just get a stern look for asking the woman to repeat everything.

"Thank you, Miss Hollingberry." Althea gave her the stack -and it WAS a stack- of hand outs. "These are just Alchemical symbols and their meanings, for later reference and review.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Miss Marilyn (Post 11058028)

Absorbing everything the prudy lady was saying, Dylan nodded. It made sense for the most part...Jotting down the things she was explaining to him, his hand and quill flew over the notebook parchment. Due to the fastness of his writing, it wasn't coming out too legible...but enough so that he'd understand it later during study.

And...as a response..."The muggle story that I'm familiar with talked about King Midas turning his daughter to gold. I suppose that could relate back to it being a metaphor, showing these other alchemists that greed will only leave you empty...since Midas couldn't drink or eat properly, something else that leaves you empty...?" Perhaps she hadn't meant for him to be that literal.

Nodding his head...Dylan was surprised that his reasoning had been close to the mark. Feeling more than a little stunned, he blinked back at the Professor, adding these planet / metal comparisons to his notebook. "Erm..." *cough* "...So, I'm thinking this would be most true for Potion-making, yea?..." Maybe?..."I mean, I understand that for certain potions, they have to be brewed at certain times...Maybe brewing them during a particular month would give them different magical properties? Or maybe make them...stronger? as opposed to other months that might make them weaker?" That would relate to the Zodiac...Okay, he was going off on a tangent. He probably wasn't even on the right track of thinking...

Oh, and to reference another Professor..."...Talking about that plant alchemy, I know that some plants must be harvested during certain months to work right."

"Its the pursuit of gold, the idea of being consumed by greed and obsession, and that there are consequences for such greed that fits in the allegory of the Midas story." she nodded at the Slytherin and deigned to give him a smile of encouragement.

"Yes harvest and preparation can be effected by when you do it. Good thinking."

Quote:

Originally Posted by DH Vixen (Post 11058036)

Lana nodded slightly and looked back down at her notes. She vaugely understood what she had said, but deep inside it kind of made sense to her. Reading it was one thing, completely understanding it was another. Kind of like the difference between knowledge and wisdom. Making a mental note to herself to pick up those books she had read before about Alchemy, she continued to add to her notes.

Listening to the question, she thought for a moment and bit her lip in thought. She didn't really understand all that much about Astrology but she did kind of understand on what level it dealt on. "They both deal with different realms of the same thing, the movement and manifestation of spirit. One is more celestial, when the other is more sub-terrestrial." she offered with a raised hand. "The purpose of both alchemy and astrology is to purify and align the soul in order that the spirit can be wholly reflected."

"Right." Althea agreed with a nod. "To many, especially muggles who fancy themselves as Alchemists, Alchemical pursuits are as much, if not more, about soul purity than creating a substance that can be used for magical purposes." Which made sense when you thought about it, since they could in theory purify a substance but wouldn't be able to use it magically anyway.

Quote:

Originally Posted by SilverTiger (Post 11058041)

Information just kept coming and coming, and Stella kept writing notes down as fast as she could. She was starting to worry that her hand would cramp up before she'd be able to stretch it out, but she wasn't about to miss anything that was mentioned in the lecture. It was information, and even if she wasn't planning on going into anything that would likely need knowledge of alchemy, she wasn't about to turn the knowledge down. Besides, it was interesting, even if it was extremely confusing. Plus, so far it didn't look like any interruptions were likely, which made her that much more comfortable just writing everything down.

She'd wanted to raise her hand to suggest why dissolution and coagulation were related, but the discussion had skipped over that for now and she tried to file that away for later. Her hand did raise when it came to the question of how Astrology could be connected to alchemy, though. "Perhaps certain alchemical processes work better when we're under the influence of the linked planets. For exapmle, is it possible the traditional idea of alchemy being able to turn lead into gold is easier when there's a convergence of the sun and Saturn?," she suggested. "If that convergence is even possible at all." And she found herself unable to not go back to the discussion of spagyrics and the Latin phrase that had been brought up as well. "Regarding the Greek and Latin, spagyrics would be relating to solids, plants as the case seems to be. Solve et Coagula would relate more to liquids, or what liquids can do to solids, but the actual translations basically are the same. Destruction and creation." Her hand went down quickly after that, though, worried that she'd get reprimanded for giving too much information that wasn't related to the current topic.

"Good thinking and there have been some studies regarding convergences and concordances of the planets, and how such celestial movements effect alchemical experiments, there should be a few texts in the library here at Hogwarts actually." When Stella continued, obviously speaking something she'd been thinking on, Althea simply nodded.

"And both underline the concept of Alchemy - breaking down the whole in order to recombine the prime principles to find the essence of the original whole in its purest form."

Quote:

Originally Posted by Vanillasweetheart (Post 11058054)

Michelle racked her brains, trying to remember everything she could about astrology and trying to relate it to alchemy. As far as she was concerned, astrology was weird and didn't interest her.

"Uh, Professor, perhaps it can be said that alchemy combines different kinds of studies, and astrology is one of them. Also, I think both are quite spiritual, and can be used for self-discovery and self-transformation..."

Chelle sat down, thoroughly embarrassed. She couldn't make head or tail of whatever she had said. If anyone else could, well and good. Otherwise she had just made a fool out of herself in front of everyone.

Althea listened and then nodded. "Yes, some people certainly focus on the spiritual aspects of both. Transmutation of the soul was certainly a metaphorical focus for Alchemists in the past, and the discovery of the self during that process of reflection and experimentation."

Quote:

Originally Posted by nogoodforyou (Post 11058113)

...
Connections between Astrology and Alchemy? She might know something about that. "They have both been linked throughout history or time," she said after raising her hand. "One of the core elements used is the concept of timing, by both Alchemy and Astrology." Did that make sense? Yes? No? "They are also concerned with ingredients and operations, as Astrology uses the study of the energy of the planets and its impact on Earth, and Alchemy is concerned with turning metals into gold with required steps and operations." Pfff.

Nod. "Yes, some good points, Miss Reed."

Quote:

Originally Posted by Meizzner (Post 11058198)

"Yes, its poisonous, but also medicinal when appropriate purified via the proper procedures. Some might say its worth the risk." The professor answered.

Quote:

Originally Posted by FireboltAvis88 (Post 11058327)

Althea listened as Alyssa spoke and then nodded, though really, she did prefer when students didn't jump ahead, and stuck with lesson plan.

"Actually, Sir Isaac Newton saw himself primarily as an Alchemist. Some even believe that he succeeded in transmuting lead into gold and chose to keep it a secret. As for Carl Jung, his beliefs certainly reflected the concept of a metaphorical pursuit of gold as a representation of the purity of the soul, and Jungian psychology does heavily borrow from Alchemical theories and areas of research."

Since she'd asked.

"Moon magic and position has always had a heavy influence on both Alchemy and Astronomy. Good thoughts, Miss Potter."

Quote:

Originally Posted by hpfan18 (Post 11058356)

Belle was glad her answer was right. She heard the professor adding more information to the board and copied it down in her noteboook.
After Belle was done copying down the notes, her hand cramped up and she was exhausted. "Professor can we slow a little bit, my hands are starting to cramp from all this note taking." She didn't want to sound rude but at least she was being honest.

"Give me your quill, I'll charm it to take notes for you." Althea answered.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Hermione Lily Potter (Post 11059526)

"There are many similarities and relationships between chemistry and alchemy in regard to those prime properties, except in cases where salt, mercury, and sulfur are metaphorical of course." So, yes.

Quote:

Originally Posted by TakemetotheBurrow (Post 11058164)

As the notes continued, Ella was surprised to hear that alchemy and astrology had a connection. She found this curious and tried to think of some other ways they might be related. After a little while, the second year raised her hand. "Uh Professor, maybe since the alchemists related some metals to planets they needed the planets to like-be in a good place in order for their work to work properly?" To be quite honest, even Ella was a little confused at her suggestion but she knew what she meant to say. Just not how to put it simply.

Quote:

Originally Posted by CJP (Post 11058314)

Quote:

Originally Posted by FearlessLeader19 (Post 11059771)

Althea nodded at the three students who sounded to be on a similar tack.

"Yes, timing and correspondences of planetary positions are relevant, just as is the case with potion brewing. It doesn't mean that alchemical processes won't work, just that the results are stronger when the correspondences are taken into account."

Quote:

Originally Posted by Steelsheen (Post 11059886)

Althea eyed the Ravenclaw for a long moment.

"Perhaps, if I have the time and the inclination, I may." She raised one eyebrow. That would have to do because she couldn't say for sure.

Quote:

Originally Posted by hermygirl (Post 11060216)

...?

"You could actually reduce moon rocks and purify them Alchemically, if you wished." So he wasn't.... COMPLETELY wrong. Strangely.

"While Kurumi hands out those sheets with the Alchemical symbols, lets touch a bit on the history of Alchemy, and of those who have made advances in the field." And this was technically why their History of Magic professor had been invited to pop in. The man needed as much education as he could get, and Althea was ever so obliging.

"In Alchemy there are three major strands which are distinguishable as relatively independent from one another. That isn't to say they did not originate from the same source, just that the knowledge is lost to us and there is no written record which links these three strands to a common origin." Were they following?

"Those strands are Indian, Chinese, and Western Alchemy. Western Alchemy includes Hellenistic Egyptian Alchemy, Islamic Alchemy and Medieval European Alchemy. As you can see the cultures in which Alchemy exists are varied. You'll find there are many famous Alchemists across these cultures, Miss Potter already mentioned Carl Jung and Sir Isaac Newton, does anyone else know of any famous Alchemists? And, if you know anything about their achievements, do share those too, but please only name one Alchemist." Althea requested, knowing that there were a few students who would happily rattle off half a dozen, given the chance.

OOC: I am SO sorry for how long this took. I lost this post THREE times. *kicks SS and my laptop* Please only give ONE ALCHEMIST if your character is going to answer this question, there are PLENTY of possible answers so please try not to give one that has already been given if you can help it, and if they have been said already, ADD to the answer with some new information! - unique answers/post will earn more points in this respect. We have another three and a bit days for this class, just so you all know there's still plenty of time to get involved :)

More notes will be added soon.

Oh and sweetpinkpixie has been given ACTUAL hand outs to give to everyone, so don't RP getting them until she RPs handing them out :)

~~Again, I'll edit this post to include anyone I missed.~~ doneee.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Tegz (Post 11064052)

SPOILER!!: responses

Chelle's body, which had tensed while waiting for the Professor to respond, now relaxed and she felt a few ten kilos lift off her chest.
Yay, so I wasn't talking complete gibberish.

Quote:

"While Kurumi hands out those sheets with the Alchemical symbols, lets touch a bit on the history of Alchemy, and of those who have made advances in the field." And this was technically why their History of Magic professor had been invited to pop in. The man needed as much education as he could get, and Althea was ever so obliging.

"In Alchemy there are three major strands which are distinguishable as relatively independent from one another. That isn't to say they did not originate from the same source, just that the knowledge is lost to us and there is no written record which links these three strands to a common origin." Were they following?

"Those strands are Indian, Chinese, and Western Alchemy. Western Alchemy includes Hellenistic Egyptian Alchemy, Islamic Alchemy and Medieval European Alchemy. As you can see the cultures in which Alchemy exists are varied. You'll find there are many famous Alchemists across these cultures, Miss Potter already mentioned Carl Jung and Sir Isaac Newton, does anyone else know of any famous Alchemists? And, if you know anything about their achievements, do share those too, but please only name one Alchemist." Althea requested, knowing that there were a few students who would happily rattle off half a dozen, given the chance.

Does Chelle know any famous alchemists?
Why, yes, she does.

She has grown up listening to her best friend talk about Isaac Newton and how he's an alchemist as well as a scientist. Gosh, Jake perceived Newton as his God, which only made sense, given that he was an Atheist and that Physics was his passion.

"Professor, I know that Sir Isaac Newton, despite being a world famous mathematician and scientist, had a certain fascination with Alchemy. He practised the art with passion, and this fact was not known to the rest of the world until after his death," Chelle said.

"If I'm not wrong, one of Newton's main goals was to obtain the Elixir of Life through Alchemy. Also, he believed that metals possessed a certain form of life, and I have heard something else as well, although it might be a myth." Or she had read in a book, rather. "I've heard that Newton also successfully converted lead into gold."

Quote:

Originally Posted by Tegz (Post 11064052)

"You'll find there are many famous Alchemists across these cultures, Miss Potter already mentioned Carl Jung and Sir Isaac Newton, does anyone else know of any famous Alchemists? And, if you know anything about their achievements, do share those too, but please only name one Alchemist." Althea requested, knowing that there were a few students who would happily rattle off half a dozen, given the chance.

Aaaand they were back to things that made Nora's head spin. Like... literally.

She listened carefully to everything Ms Schirmer was telling them, also taking as many notes as she could, so she could study more outside the class, when she had more time, but she had no answer to her last question. Well, she barely knew what Alchemy was, so how could she possibly know any alchemists, and anything about their achievements? Famous or not, she still didn't know any.

Well, she'll just sit quietly and take notes. Yup.

Oh. They had to say if they knew any alchemists. Indiana thought for a few moments. She was sure that she had read about them. A few anyway, when she'd been reading random books in the library. She liked the library. Hmm. But now she needed to think about one to talk about. Ooh. Wait. Why was she thinking about a muggle alchemist when she knew a wizarding one. Indy smiled, raising her hand. "Nicholas Flamel." She'd read about him, and that famous stone he'd invented. "He was a famous alchemist, and he invented the philiosopher's stone, which he used to make his wife and himself immortal. Well until he chose to destroy the stone." Which seemed kind of weird. Why not live forever? She chose not to stay that though, because she didn't think it sounded too good.

Nigel was a little weirded out that these alchemist would play with poison.

But whatever, he had a question to answer.

Nigel raised his hand and said. "Professor, one alchemist is John Dee, he was an adviser to a Queen."