The Mystery of the Portal: A Guide to Rudolf Steiner's first Mystery Drama

Rudolf Steiner was a philosopher and educationalist who was also a radical dramatist. His first play, The Portal of Initiation, is rich in content and artistically presented, but leaves us with questions. Trevor Dance suggests that the first step to appreciating the play is to understand Steiner's methods. The play belongs to the tradition of Mystery Dramas from ancient times and combines aspects of Goethe's alchemical fable with the spiritual growth of contemporary individuals. Dance provides a clear synopsis of each scene and introduces us to the characters, who face dilemmas and challenges on many layers of reality. His lucid guide is an ideal introduction for both individual readers and study groups.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 222 pages
Publication date: 07 April 2022
Publisher: Rudolf Steiner Press

Rudolf Steiner, a philosopher and educator, was a radical dramatist known for writing four lengthy and complex plays. Among these, "The Portal of Initiation" stands out as a rich and artistically presented work, yet it leaves us with intriguing questions. Why is the first scene so long and filled with lengthy speeches? Why do our usual expectations of drama not fully meet in this play? Was Steiner truly a competent dramatist?

In this essential guide, Trevor Dance offers valuable insights to help us appreciate "The Portal of Initiation." The play belongs to the tradition of Mystery Dramas, which have been used as vehicles for inner development since ancient times. Steiner skillfully combines elements from Goethe's alchemical fable "The Green Snake and the Beautiful Lily" with the spiritual growth of contemporary individuals, all within the broader framework of reincarnation and karma. With accessibility in mind, the author provides a clear synopsis of each scene, introducing us to a diverse cast of characters, including rustics, sophisticates, hierophants, and spiritual entities. Their dilemmas and challenges unfold across various layers of reality, from a room in Sophia's house to the exalted Sun Temple.

Through his lucid guide, Dance unravels the enigmas behind the creation and content of "The Portal of Initiation." He enables us to fully enjoy the play and even fall in love with it. This guide is a groundbreaking achievement, being the first of its kind. It serves as an ideal introduction for both individual readers and study groups, providing a deeper understanding and appreciation of this remarkable work of drama.

Weight: 356g
Dimension: 155 x 234 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781855845978