Michael Servetus

Date of Birth: September 29, 1511

Zodiac Sign: Libra

Date of Death: October 27, 1553

Biography

Michael Servetus, born Miguel Serveto Conesa, was a Spanish polymath, physician, and theologian, best known for his work in anatomy and his unorthodox views on Christianity. Born in 1511 in Villanueva de Sigena, Spain, Servetus made significant contributions to the understanding of the pulmonary circulation of the blood. His medical knowledge was groundbreaking for his time, and his theological writings challenged the doctrines of the Catholic Church and the emerging Protestant Reformation. Servetus studied medicine in Paris, where he developed his theories on blood circulation and human anatomy. His book “Christianismi Restitutio” (The Restoration of Christianity) contained his medical discoveries and controversial theological ideas, which ultimately led to his arrest and execution. On October 27, 1553, Servetus was burned at the stake in Geneva, Switzerland, for heresy, largely due to his theological disputes with John Calvin.

5 Interesting Facts about Michael Servetus

1. Michael Servetus was the first European to correctly describe the function of pulmonary circulation.

2. He published his findings on blood circulation in his theological work “Christianismi Restitutio,” which also contained his anti-Trinitarian views.

3. Servetus used a pseudonym, Michel de Villeneuve, to avoid detection due to his controversial views.

4. He was arrested in Geneva after being recognized by followers of John Calvin, who opposed his theological positions.

5. Despite his contributions to medicine, Servetus is often remembered more for his tragic end and his role in the history of religious tolerance and freedom of thought.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Michael Servetus

1. “To kill a man is not to defend a doctrine, but to kill a man.”

2. “The blood is passed through the pulmonary artery to the lungs and then returns to the heart via the pulmonary vein.”

3. “I do not know what will happen to me; I know that my life is in the hands of God.”

4. “The greater the ignorance, the greater the dogmatism.”

5. “Truth always triumphs where reason is free to combat it.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Michael Servetus did not accumulate significant wealth during his lifetime. His highest net worth is not documented, as he was more focused on his studies and works rather than financial gain.