Table of Contents

Preface I. Introduction: What is Esotericism? II. Esotericism in the Ancient World III. The Kabbalah: Understanding the Hidden in the Revealed IV. The Renaissance: Re-Inventing the Ancient World V. Esotericism in the Confessional Age VI. Esotericism, Enlightenment, Science VII. Institutionalized Esotericism: Secret Societies VIII. Pioneer of Modern Esotericism: The Theosophical Society IX. Esotericism and Modernity

About the Author

Kocku von Stuckrad teaches at the Institute for the History of Hermetic Philosophy at the University of Amsterdam. Previously he was a professor of religious studies at the University of Bayreuth. His most recent work includes History of Western Astrology (published by C.H. Beck in German, 2003, and by Equinox in English, 2005) and Einfuhrung in die Religionswissenschaft (Introduction to the Science of Religion) with Hans G. Kippenberg published in 2003 in German by C.H. Beck.

Reviews

'Von Stuckrad is one of the most respected figures in the rich and blossoming field of Western esotericism. Impressive in breadth, analysis and clarity, this text is an excellent introduction to Western esotericism and a welcome addition to any undergraduate or graduate syllabus. Highly recommended.' - Religious Studies Review 'Combines chronological organization with an encyclopaedic richness.' - The Journal of Religion 'A handy orientation to newcomers to the vast field of esoteric studies - Stuckrad traces the historical reach of Gnosticism, hermeticism, alchemy, Kabbalah, Neoplatonism, Rosicrucians, Freemasonry and Theosophy into the modern world.' - www.wordtrade.com