Werner Beierwaltes Lux Intelligibilis: Investigation on the Metaphysics of Light of the Greeks

Thus far unpublished even in its original German, Lux intelligibilis. Investigation on the Metaphysics of Light of the Greeks, submitted by Werner Beierwaltes as a doctoral dissertation in 1957, is presented here for the first time in English translation. Beierwaltes' investigation begins by describing the metaphoric and symbolic power attributed to light in the foundational texts of Greek antiquity. The analysis also examines the theophany or divine manifestation through light apparitions, particularly in the context of the Eleusinian mysteries. It then traces the shift from a symbolism of light to a metaphysics of light that, beginning with Pythagoras and Parmenides, takes on its full form with the impactful Platonic insight of the light-like nature of the intelligible. This is a programmatic work that presents in embryonic form themes that would later be revisited by the author throughout his vast body of work. Beierwaltes thus begins his journey through some of the central themes of the Neoplatonic tradition and its later reception, a journey that will lead him to dwell on thinkers of the stature of Eriugena, Meister Eckhart and Nicholas of Cusa.

The English translation of Lux intelligibilis. Investigation on the Metaphysics of Light of the Greeks is accompanied by an introduction to the person and work of Werner Beierwaltes by Claudia D’Amico, as well as by a substantial Essay as PostScriptum by Enrico Peroli, which allow the reader to grasp the enormous contribution of the original text. The English translation has been revised by Tadeo Lima, and the tracing and careful transcription of the Greek and Latin sources and references was carried out by Ezequiel Ludueña.