In 1204, alchemy was gaining traction as a philosophical and scientific pursuit in Europe, influenced by earlier traditions from the Islamic world. Alchemists sought to transform base metals into gold and discover the elixir of life, which sparked curiosity and exploration in various fields. This blend of mysticism and science began to shape European intellectual thought and culture.

The themes of transformation and the quest for knowledge in alchemical thought found their way into poetry, inspiring writers to explore the interplay between the material and spiritual realms. Poets like Geoffrey Chaucer later incorporated alchemical motifs into their works, reflecting the era's fascination with transformation and the mysteries of existence.