RESUMEN
The study evaluates Paracelsus's and Paracelsian-Weigelian microcosmogonies, i.e. theories concerning the nature and creation of human beings, especially their biblical underpinnings, and particularly in the light of Luther's and Lutheran anthropological and biblical-exegetical stances. The Lutheran approach to the origin and components of human beings-as seen in Luther's early Magnificat Commentary and the Genesis Commentary of his late career-relied on such magisterial principles as adherence to sola scriptura, literal biblical exegesis, and the hermeneutical standard to 'let scripture interpret scripture,' whereas the Paracelsians, Weigelians, and Pseudo-Weigelians-in such works as Paracelus's Astronomia Magna (1537/38) and the anonymous Astrologia Theologizata (1617)-employed such extra-biblical concepts as 'sidereal bodies,' the 'light of nature,' and a microcosm-macrocosm theory based on an alchemical interpretation of the limus terrae of Genesis 2:7. Seventeenth-century Orthodox Lutherans, including Nikolaus Hunnius and Ehregott Daniel Colberg, castigated the 'heretical' in Paracelsus and the Astrologia Theologizata. The study also addresses the authorship of several texts entitled Astrologia Theologizata and speculates on reasons for the tracts' deviations from Paracelsus's views. The case study of Paracelsian-Weigelian microcosmogonies underscores the centuries-long staying power of some of Paracelsus's core theological concepts, which were both seconded by votaries and vituperatively criticized by opponents.
RESUMEN
The study offers an analysis of the treatise Von der Pestilentz an die Statt Stertzingen (first edition 1576, ed. Michael Toxites) in the context of Paracelsus's likely sojourn in Tyrol in 1533/1534. The article discusses Paracelsus's approach to treating plague, emphasizing practical remedies over theoretical considerations. Paracelsus offers various therapeutic interventions, including bloodletting and herbal remedies. The treatise also delves into astrological considerations, offering recommendations based on sex, age, and other factors. Despite its departure from Paracelsus's more theoretical plague works, such as Zwey Bücher von der Pestilentz vnnd jhren Zufellen and De Peste Libri tres, the Sterzing treatise is deemed authentic, reflecting a practical and utilitarian approach likely driven by Paracelsus's attempt to secure patronage. The article underscores the importance of considering audience and genre when interpreting Paracelsus's writings, suggesting that the Sterzing treatise serves as a valuable biographical source while offering insights into his evolving medical theories.