Occult Germany: Old Gods, Mystics, and Magicians

Germany has a rich history of occult and esoteric traditions, from prehistory to the present. This book explores these traditions, including prehistoric sacred sites, the survival and revival of pre-Christian gods, Christian mysticism, Rosicrucianism, secret societies, and the Church's suppression of pagan beliefs. It also examines the influence of astrology, alchemy, and the Kabbalah on German culture and the esoteric aspects of Romanticism, the Nordic revival, and the Third Reich. The author reveals both the enlightened and dark sides of occult Germany, leaving an enduring mark on the country.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 264 pages
Publication date: 09 May 2024
Publisher: Inner Traditions Bear and Company

No country boasts a more profound and intricate tapestry of occult and esoteric traditions than Germany. In this captivating exploration of the inner history of Deutschland,Christopher McIntosh delves into numerous such traditions,spanning from prehistory to the 21st century.

McIntosh traces the enduring magical heritage of Germany,uncovering the numerous prehistoric sacred sites that hint at a nearly forgotten ancient shamanic civilization. He delves into the survival and revival of the old pre-Christian gods in folklore, customs, and practices, as well as the fascinating realm of witchcraft. He also explores the rich and multifaceted spiritual heritage of Germany, examining Christian mysticism and theosophy, exemplified by renowned figures such as Meister Eckhart, Hildegard of Bingen, and Jakob Boehme.

The author further examines Rosicrucianism, which originated in Germany, and explores other secret societies that thrived in Germany, including speculative Freemasonry, the Fraternitas Saturni, and the Golden and Rosy Cross. He delves into the Church's efforts to suppress ancient gods and pagan beliefs, as well as the paradoxical outcome of periods of the Church's heaviest oppression, which gave rise to immortal poets, philosophers, theologians, artists, and mystics.

McIntosh also explores the distinctive forms adopted by astrology, alchemy, and the Kabbalah in Germany, as well as the esoteric influences on Romanticism. Moving into more recent centuries, the author examines the Nordic revival in the 19th century and the profound influence of Theosophy and the movements that emerged from it, such as Steiner's Anthroposophy. In the 20th century, he delves into the esoteric traditions of the era, exploring the work of neo-Nordic occultists and esoteric writers like Meyrink and Hesse.

Furthermore, McIntosh explores certain occult aspects of the Third Reich, which resulted in a backlash against the regime. This exploration provides a comprehensive and insightful journey into the rich and enigmatic world of German esoteric history, shedding light on the enduring legacies and influences of these traditions throughout history.

Weight: 436g
Dimension: 151 x 228 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781644117347