ASCLEPIUS

BY HERMES TRISMEGISTUS, original: "Mercurii Trismegisti." Hermes Trismegistus, or "Thrice-Greatest Hermes," was a legendary Hellenistic figure postulating a synthesis of Greek and Egyptian prophetic wisdom.

With Commentary

BY BROTHER HANNIBAL ROSSELI

OF CALABRIA, OF THE ORDER OF FRIARS MINOR

OF THE REGULAR OBSERVANCE, PROFESSOR OF

The "Regular Observance" refers to a branch of the Franciscan Order that sought to follow the original, strict Rule of St. Francis.

THEOLOGY AND PHILOSOPHY AT

SAINT BERNARDINO IN KRAKOW.

Book VI, on the Immortality of the Soul,

which is the first book of the Asclepius.

A woodcut illustration features a tall obelisk standing on a tiered square pedestal. To the left of the obelisk, several birds fly in formation amidst stylized clouds. Small trees and building structures are visible at the base of the monument in the background. In the 16th century, the obelisk was often used as a symbol of solar power, stability, and the "Egyptian" wisdom associated with Hermes.

With the permission and authority of the Most Illustrious and Most Reverend Lord Hannibal of Capua,

Archbishop of Naples, and Apostolic Nuncio in the Kingdom of Poland.

An Apostolic Nuncio is the diplomatic representative of the Pope.

And with the Favor and Privilege of His Sacred Imperial Majesty

Referring to the Holy Roman Emperor, Rudolf II.

and the Most Serene King of Poland.

The Asclepius of Hermes Trismegistus: On the Immortality of the Soul

ASCLEPIUS

BY HERMES TRISMEGISTUS, original: "Mercurii Trismegisti." Hermes Trismegistus, or "Thrice-Greatest Hermes," was a legendary Hellenistic figure postulating a synthesis of Greek and Egyptian prophetic wisdom.

BY BROTHER HANNIBAL ROSSELI

Book VI, on the Immortality of the Soul,

which is the first book of the Asclepius.

IN KRAKOW,

In the Printing House of Lazarus: In the Year

1590.