This
all-encompassing review
by Rudolf Steiner of how the anthroposophic movement came into
existence — leading to the establishment of the
Anthroposophical Society — and its connection for a time with
the Theosophical Society, is a fascinating account of important
events in the history of the Western spiritual tradition.
In
the last decades of the
nineteenth century, a yearning for spiritual nourishment arose within
European souls, so that the artistic works of Richard Wagner and the
writings of Madame H. P. Blavatsky, among others, became popular.
Organizations such as the Giordano Bruno League and the Theosophical
Society subsequently appeared, and in these surroundings the
anthroposophic movement came into being.
Rudolf
Steiner traces the
growth of the anthroposophic movement and shows that by remaining
true to its original impulse and purpose it was able gradually to
gain in strength. He also outlines the path of the Theosophical
Society and, in clear dispassionate tones, shows how the two
movements were able to work together before moving towards an
unavoidable separation.
This
book is an important work
for those interested in the history of, and the impulse behind, the
anthroposophic movement; to those seeking insights into an important
stage in the history of the Mysteries; and for those who wish to know
more of the life and philosophy of Rudolf Steiner.