Machine derived contents note: Preface; 1. The enigmatic career of Richard Boyle, 1566-1643; 2. The hostile witness: Boyle's career through the eyes of his enemies; 3. The mental world of Richard Boyle; 4. Social ascent and social adjustments in the career of Richard Boyle; 5. The family lief of Richard Boyle; 6. Richard Boyle: Anglo-Irishman; 7. Conclusion: the Boyles, Ireland and the 'New Science'