In a closing sentence of The Garden of Cyrus, Sir Thomas Browne juxtaposes global time zones, light and darkness, conscious activity and unconscious passivity, as well as one of the world's oldest civilizations (Persia) with one of its newest (America). This unique blend of polarised symbolism is reflective of the many thematic polarities which exist between his twin Discourses of 1658.
Browne's interest in America was fueled by his reading eyewitness reports of its vast geographical expanse, rich resources, and diverse zoology and botany. Such reports sparked his perception of America as an exotic land with immense future promise. Towards the end of his life he playfully parodied Nostradamus in doggerel verse, forecasting America's wealth might one day necessitate economic protectionism.
'When America shall cease to send out its Treasure,
But employ it instead in American Pleasure'.
In stark relief, Browne's place-name symbolism in The Garden of Cyrus associates Persia to esoteric wisdom and magic, epitomized by the Persian Magi following a star to Bethlehem. Cyrus, the Discourses' titular figure and Persia's first ruler, holds singular distinction as the sole non-Judaic Biblical character named 'God's Anointed.' Browne's comparative religious studies in Urn Burial, the darker half of his literary diptych and alchemical mandala, introduced early English readers to Zoroastrianism, the ancient monotheistic faith of Persians.
As a Renaissance humanist, Thomas Browne reflected on the psychological roots of war, drawing from personal experience after losing his son Thomas in the Anglo-Dutch wars. Browne's short essay 'The Sea-fight' showcases his insight into empire-building and war-driven psychological traits, offering commentary that transcends his era.
In its conclusion, he cautions against excess wealth, envy towards others' prosperity, and the dangers of seeking to impose slavery, warning that such pursuits may ultimately lead to disaster and enslavement.
'The cause of this war was that of all wars, excess of prosperity. As wealth arises spirits rise, and lust and greed of power appear; thence men lose their sense of moderation, look with distaste on the prosperity of others, revolve disquiet in their mind, and throw over all settlement, for fear lest their enemies’ wealth be firmly established, they put their own to risk; and finally (as happens in human affairs) fall into slavery when they seek to impose it, and earnestly courting good fortune, experience disaster'. [2]
Sources
Header photo- American Northrop B-2 Spirit strategic bomber.
[1] Miscellaneous Tract 12 'A Prophecy concerning the Future state of Several Nations'.
[2] Naumachia or The Sea-Fight, Latin essay written for Midshipman Thomas Browne b. 1646. Its unclear whether Browne's son was lost in action or at sea. He may have been buried at Clerkenwell in 1667.
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