First published in 1704, "Lexicon Technicum" was in many respects the first alphabetical encyclopedia written in English. Although the emphasis was on mathematical subjects, its contents go beyond what would be called science or technology today, in conformity with the broad 18th-century understanding of the terms "arts" and "science." It includes entries on the humanities and fine arts, notably law, commerce, music and heraldry; it does not include theology, biographies or poetry.As in many books, the illustrations are an important part of the Lexicon's appeal. Check out the great "Fortification" plate with accompanying explanations - or John Marshall's "New Invented Double Microscope," the second fold-out diagram.The book's editor, John Harris (c. 1666 - 1719) was an English writer and a clergyman. He was elected a fellow of the Royal Society in 1696 and was its vice-president for a time. In 1698, he delivered a lecture entitled "Atheistical Objections against the Being of God and His Attributes fairly considered and fully refuted." The friendship of Sir William Cowper, afterwards lord chancellor, secured for Harris the office of private chaplain, a prebend in Rochester cathedral (1708), and the rectory of several parishes. A man of many interests, he was working on a complete history of Kent at the time of his death. Sadly, he is said to have died in poverty brought on by poor management of his financial affairs.
