In the 16th and 17th centuries, Europe experienced a "New Science" movement centered around exploration, discovery, induction, and experimentation, known as the "Scientific Revolution" and considered to mark the boundary between modern and ancient times. However, this historical discontinuity theory overlooks the role of literature and language in constructing knowledge systems. In 17th century England, science and literature were not seen as independent fields as they are in modern times, but rather as intertwined. This article explores how the production of modern scientific facts relies on the epistemological and epistemological traditions of classical Chinese language through the study of experimental science in 17th century England and Boyle's scientific narrative. The aim is to break down the notion of opposition between science and literature, and to reveal the intrinsic connection between science and literature, modernity and tradition.

Literary World: Understanding Experimental Science - Knowledge Tradition

In Europe between 1550 and 1660, printed materials became mainstream reading materials, and the capitalist publishing industry emerged. De Boer's book "Natural Magic" was widely popular due to its experimental content. Deporta verified natural phenomena in classical literature and philosophy through experiments. Although the experimental methods may seem absurd in modern times, his experimental style and description of natural phenomena influenced later British writers. Deporta's mixed experimental and literary approach foreshadowed the development of literary issues, reflecting the epistemological and ontological foundations from the Middle Ages to the early Renaissance, namely magic, faith, laws, literature, and art as unified ways of understanding the world. The publication of 'Natural Magic' corresponds to Copernicus' 'On the Motion of the Celestial Sphere', marking the birth of a new science. Although Deporta did not systematize his research methods, he recognized the importance of practical scenarios and sensory experiences in revealing nature.

Virtual Witness: Literary Technology in the Laboratory

In the scientific practice of the 17th century, Boyle created a new way of scientific narrative through the application of literary techniques. He was influenced by scientists such as Galileo and frequently used the term "experiment" in his articles, sparking debates with philosophers such as Hobbes. Boyle's literary technique, namely "virtual witnessing," is not only an empirical scientific method, but also a manifestation of literary culture during the Renaissance period. This technique requires the witnesses of the experiment to participate in the experimental process through imagination, just like watching a work of art, in order to gain an alternative experience.

Text Practice ": Boyle's Scientific Narrative

Boyle's scientific narrative is described by himself as "narrative" in "New Physical Mechanics Experiment," which contrasts with the views of postmodern scholar Leotard, who believes that science and narrative are incompatible. However, Boyle's experimental science actually emerged from a shared culture shaped by literature and art. Boyle's scientific narrative is not just about simulating the sensory cognition of literature and art, but more importantly, it is embedded in a tradition based on literary texts. Boyle's process of producing scientific facts is closely linked to literary behavior. He produces the representational logic of scientific facts through means such as writing, text dissemination, and reading habits.