1597. The Mirror of Alchemy is an alchemical classic written by Roger Bacon, (Doctor Mirabilis: Latin for Wonderful Teacher), English Franciscan philosopher and educational reformer was a major medieval proponent of experimental science and is thought of as one of the earliest advocates of the modern scientific method. He studied mathematics, astronomy, optics, alchemy, and languages. His Opus Majus contains treatments of mathematics and optics, alchemy and the manufacture of gunpowder, the positions and sizes of the celestial bodies, and anticipates later inventions such as microscopes, telescopes, spectacles, flying machines and steam ships.