Hermetic Tradition

Either I zoned out and glazed over Yates' explanation of the Hermetic Tradition or I simply couldn't understand her explanation.  In the sections dedicated to Bruno I constantly read how he based his memory theater on this tradition and I kept realizing I had no Idea what that meant.  I wikied and was somewhat enlightened on the subject matter.

Hermes Trismegistus is a Greek and Egyptian creation.  It is thought that he is a combination of the Greek god Hermes and the Egyptian god Thoth.  However, Hermes Trismegistus is thought to be an actual person contemporary to Moses.  Called Thrice the Great, Trismegistus was believed to be the greatest philosopher, greatest priest, and greatest king.  His is thought to be the author of Corpus Hermeticum and The Emerald Tablet of Hermes Trismegistus. In these works he explains the "three parts of wisdom of the whole universe." Alchemy, Astrology, and Theurgy.  Many of the worlds religions have Hermetic influences and a separate religion based on Hermeticism exists.  From what I understand the three parts of wisdom, Alchemy, Astrology, and Theurgy, work together to create an understanding beyond the common conceptions of science.  Through careful study of nature, physics, magic, and the universe, one can gain knowledge that far surpasses presupposed limitations.  

Its all a bit confusing. It seems somewhat in line with Plato's theory of forms in that limitless knowledge may be obtained through proper study.  One can understand all that is the universe through alchemy, astrology, and theurgy.

check out the wikis for a bit more clear description.  I think it will help decipher Yates' dealings with Bruno.

Hermeticism

Hermes Trismegistus