The Life of Philippus Theophrastus Bombast of Hohenheim: Known by the Name of Paracelsus, and the Substance of His Teachings Concerning Cosmology, Anthropology, Pneumatology, Magic and Sorcery, Medicine, Alchemy and Astrology, Philosophy and Theosophy, Extracted and Translated from His Rare and Extensive Works and from Some Unpublished Manuscripts

Franz Hartmann, a prominent German physician and member of the Theosophical Society, authored this definitive English-language biography of Paracelsus in 1887. Driven by a deep personal interest in esoteric traditions and the occult, Hartmann sought to synthesize the vast and often fragmented writings of the 16th-century Swiss alchemist. His intent was to move beyond Paracelsus's reputation as a mere eccentric and present his work as a cohesive system of natural philosophy, medicine, and spiritual inquiry.

The volume was designed as both a biographical account and a comprehensive anthology, reflecting the late 19th-century fascination with Hermeticism and spiritualism. Hartmann utilized his access to both published tracts and personal manuscripts to create a guide that would introduce Western readers to Paracelsus's complex worldview. Upon its release, the book became a staple for students of theosophy and alternative medicine, remaining a foundational reference for those seeking to understand the intersection of early modern science and mysticism.