Scripta Instituti Donneriani Aboensis is a publication series published by the Donner Institute for research in Religious and Cultural History in Åbo, Finland. The aim of the institute, which is attached to the Foundation of Åbo Akademi University, is to conduct and promote scholarly research in the field of religion.
Vol. 20 (2008): Western Esotericism
The concept of Western Esotericism includes a multiplicity of traditions and lines of thought included in Western culture, from antiquity and the renaissance up to modern times. It is often used to refer to different forms of hidden knowledge, accessible and comprehensible only to especially initiated persons. The theme bears special significance for the Donner Institute as the study of mysticism and esotericism – especially in relation to the Anthroposophic movement – is defined as one of the main aims of the institute.
The current volume presents articles on prominent profiles such as Rudolf Steiner, Jacob Böhme and Emanuel Swedenborg. The theme of esotericism is explored in a number of different contexts, including Freemasonry, Mormonism, Theosophy and Kabbalah, often focusing on the history and development of these movements in the Nordic countries.
Published:
2008-01-01
