World History and the Mysteries: In the Light of Anthroposophy

Rudolf Steiner's lectures challenge the notion that human consciousness has remained the same throughout history, arguing that it evolves constantly and that we can only comprehend the present by understanding its origin in the past. He describes consciousness in the ancient East and follows the initiation principle from Babylonia to Greece, discussing Gilgamesh and Eabani, the mysteries of Ephesus and Hibernia, and the occult relationship between the destruction of the Temple of Artemis and the burning of the first Goetheanum in Dornach, Switzerland. The freshly-revised text is complemented with an introduction, notes, and appendices by Professor Frederick Amrine and an index.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 230 pages
Publication date: 17 May 2021
Publisher: Rudolf Steiner Press

In this groundbreaking series of lectures, Rudolf Steiner takes a daring stance by questioning the notion that human consciousness has remained unchanged throughout history. Instead, he argues that we can truly understand the past by examining the unique differences in human souls across different historical eras. Steiner asserts that consciousness is a dynamic force that evolves continuously, and our ability to comprehend the present depends on our understanding of its origins in the past.

Delivered during the evenings during the course of the 'mystery act of the Christmas Foundation Meeting,' when Rudolf Steiner not only re-founded the Anthroposophical Society but also assumed a formal role within it, these lectures explore world history in parallel with the ancient mysteries of initiation. They demonstrate how these mysteries are intricately interconnected, shedding light on the profound connections between the past and the present.

Steiner delves into the realm of consciousness in the ancient East, tracing the initiation principle from its origins in Babylonia to its influences in contemporary spiritual life. He also discusses significant figures such as Gilgamesh and Eabani, the mysteries of Ephesus and Hibernia, and the enigmatic relationship between the destruction of the Temple of Artemis by fire and the burning of the first Goetheanum in Dornach, Switzerland.

Published for the first time with color plates of Steiner's blackboard drawings, the freshly revised text is complemented with an introduction, notes, and appendices by Professor Frederick Amrine, as well as an index. This comprehensive edition allows readers to delve deeper into the rich tapestry of Rudolf Steiner's insights and revelations, providing a deeper understanding of the evolution of consciousness and its profound impact on human history.

Weight: 376g
Dimension: 156 x 233 x 34 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781855845886