Engraving of Sir Isaac Newton (1642- 1727), English physicist, mathematician and alchemist. As a mathematician Newton discovered the binomial theorem and developed differential and integral calculus. As a physicist he devised laws of motion and wrote on optics. During a bubonic plague outbreak in 1665-7 Newton retreated to his country home where he formulated his 'Method of Fluxions' (Calculus), and produced his theory of universal gravitation for which he is well known. Newton also invented the reflecting telescope, and wrote extensively on alchemy and on the biblical prophesies of Daniel and the Apocalypse.
