Western Esotericism. A Guide for the Perplexed; (Guides for the Perplexed).
London: Bloomsbury, 2013. First Paperback Edition. Softcover. Octavo. viii + 212pp. Illustrated covers, end-notes, name index, subject index. This copy from the library of Aleister Crowley scholar Martin P. Starr with a "post it note" with his printed name on it inserted for use as a book mark. From the publisher: " Western esotericism has been a pervasive presence in Western culture from late antiquity to the present day, but until recently it was largely ignored by scholars and surrounded by misconceptions and prejudice. This accessible guide provides readers with the basic knowledge and tools that will allow them to find their way in this bewildering but fascinating field. What is it that unites phenomena as diverse as ancient gnosticism and hermetism, the "occult sciences" of astrology, alchemy, and magic, rosicrucianism, as well as Christian theosophy, occultism, spiritualism, and the contemporary New Age spiritualities? What can the study of them teach us about our common cultural and intellectual heritage, and what is it that makes them relevant to contemporary concerns? How do we distinguish reliable historical knowledge from legends and fictions about esoteric traditions? These and many other questions are answered clearly and succinctly, so that the reader can find his way into the labyrinth of Western esotericism and out of it again." Appears as new thus in about Fine condition. Item #68091
ISBN: 9781441136466
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