In the early part of the 16th century there began to be accomplished in the world of medicine a revolution in many ways similar to that which was taking place at the same time in the domain of religion and theology, and with results not less (perhaps even more) beneficial to posterity. Just as the forces which achieved the reformation of the church, so too, did those which accomplished the reformation of medicine. Contents: Paracelsian reformation of medicine; Van Helmont's own account of his early life and studies; travels and trials; mysticism and magic; epistemology; ontology; psychology; power of magnetism; alchemical achievements; advancement of the healing arts.