In this classic NOVA episode titled Newton’s Dark Secrets, we are given a brief glimpse into an alternative view on famed English 17th-century genius, Sir Issac Newton.
The narrative begins with centuries-old Newton manuscripts bought at auction, revealing the unexpected occult pursuits of a man history taught was a solely rational, scientific intellect. Yet at the same time he was discovering laws of light and gravity, Newton was also using his mathematical intuition to search for hidden meanings in the Bible, while also pursuing the arcane arts of traditional alchemy.
The historical “docudrama” scenes starring Scott Handy as Newton subtly portray a life on the edge separating great genius, from the ragged descent into madness. During a time when England enjoyed a renewed interest in the sciences and mathematics, such ideas coexisted with earnest perspectives on religious doctrine and natural philosophy. All familiar obsessions Newton embraced personally, he continued working on these parallel endeavors until the end of his days.
