Bacon, Roger

English philosopher and scientist. He was interested in alchemy, the biological and physical sciences, and magic. Many discoveries have been credited to him, including the magnifying lens. He foresaw the extensive use of gunpowder and mechanical cars, boats, and planes. Bacon was known as Doctor Mirabilis (Wonderful Teacher).

In 1266, at the invitation of his friend Pope Clement IV, he began his Opus majus/Great Work, a compendium of all branches of knowledge. In 1268 he sent this with his Opus minus/Lesser Work and other writings to the pope. In 1277 Bacon was condemned and imprisoned by the Christian church for ‘certain novelties’ (heresy) and not released until 1292.