Discourse on Mechanics.

dioptric, and pneumatic—as well as other mechanical things in proper order—that is, according to number, measure, and weight, and in their natural proportion—and leave them to posterity. I intend to speak more of this once I have first explained what Mechanica mechanics is and what its peculiar arts and sciences are.

Mechanica is a science of crafting all kinds of equipment; it is thus named from the word machina, which, as Vitruvius describes, signifies an exact assembly of the firmest and most durable matter, whereby the capacity arises to move great loads. However, movement is taken here in the general sense, and all artificial types of movement are understood, which can occur only by pulling, pushing, lifting, and the like—all of which is performed partly in straight lines and partly in curved lines. And although these two types of movement are, by their nature, entirely different and appear to be opposite, they nevertheless agree with one another in the perfection and actual use of a machine to such an extent that one cannot exist without the other.

This science therefore teaches how one can move something and provide the impulse for the movement itself, and it often brings forward things that can be grasped only by thought; however, for material things, it explains their forces and capacities. Hence, it requires Mathesis mathematics for this, as well as a knowledge of all natural things, though only insofar as they can provide their utility to this science and are necessary.

Whoever possesses this art and science is called a Mechanicus mechanic. When he has applied himself to these studies, he will be equal to everything that depends on clever reflection as well as on manual labor itself and its execution, and he may also pass as an ingenious and skillful artist. For it depends here primarily not only on the knowledge of the matter, but also on manual labor, prudence, learning, and skill.

If one wishes to craft a certain machine, one must first consider well: what one wants to invent and how one wants to undertake and execute what occurs in the process. Likewise, one considers the benefit it should provide, and what other instruments or tools might be necessary for it. Whether it is to lighten great and monstrous loads, or to construct ladders to climb to heights, or to throw something, or to transport a load. In general, however, one is concerned with devising all means, both necessary and useful, to assist the natural incapacity of humans and to awaken their desire for work.

Thus, Mechanica is called a science with regard to its inventions, but is counted among the arts with regard to the crafting of instruments and tools. For, according to the statement of Vitruvius, there is a difference between when one is skilled at proving that a machine can be made in many ways, thereby also demonstrating how to increase its capacity; and another who only knows how to skillfully copy and craft the instrument or work given to him.

If someone should be concerned about the origin of machines, he would perceive not one but many causes that led people to such inventions. Often, necessity drives us to ponder and think about something; furthermore, nature itself presents a pattern of it to us in animals; indeed, the constitution and movement of the universe provides us with the most extensive material to reflect further on this matter. Likewise, many things usually occur,