Herbals, Their Origin and Evolution: A Chapter in the History of Botany 1470-1670

"Herbals, Their Origin and Evolution: A Chapter in the History of Botany" by Agnes Arber is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book explores the development of printed herbals in Europe from 1470 to 1670, concentrating primarily on their botanical and artistic aspects. Arber aims to provide an outline of this evolution while highlighting the significance of the herbals in the broader context of botany. The opening of the work sets the stage for this exploration, detailing Arber's motivations for writing and her admiration for the early herbals. It discusses the dual nature of botany—philosophical and utilitarian—and introduces key historical figures, such as Aristotle and Theophrastus, whose contributions shaped the early understanding of plants. Furthermore, Arber explains her intention to compile and clarify the intricate history of these works, emphasizing their accessibility and importance in the study of botany during the Renaissance period. The introductory chapters outline the foundational principles of these herbals and the early history of botany, establishing the context for the subsequent analysis of printed herbals.