Victorian Occultism And The Making Of Modern Magic
Victorian occultism was a movement that emerged during the reign of Queen Victoria in the 19th century. It was a time when people were fascinated with spiritualism, magic, and the supernatural. This movement was responsible for shaping the modern concept of magic and witchcraft. Today, we will explore the origins of Victorian occultism and how it influenced the making of modern magic.
The Origins Of Victorian Occultism
Victorian occultism has its roots in the 18th century, during a time when people were questioning the traditional religious beliefs. These people were looking for new ways to understand the world around them, and they turned to the study of ancient texts and art. They believed that these could help them unlock the secrets of the universe.
One of the most significant figures in the early development of Victorian occultism was the French philosopher and occultist, Eliphas Levi. He believed that magic was a means of communicating with the divine, and he wrote extensively on the subject. His works were hugely influential, and they helped to shape the beliefs of many other occultists.
The Rise Of Spiritualism
During the Victorian era, spiritualism became increasingly popular. Spiritualists believed in the existence of spirits and that it was possible to communicate with the dead. They held seances to try to communicate with spirits, and many people claimed to have had experiences with the supernatural.
The rise of spiritualism had a significant impact on Victorian occultism. It helped to popularize the idea that it was possible to communicate with the spirits, and it led to an increase in interest in magic and the supernatural.
The Hermetic Order Of The Golden Dawn
The Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn was a secret society that was founded in the late 19th century. It was comprised of people who were interested in the occult, and they believed that they could use magic to achieve spiritual enlightenment.
The Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn was hugely influential in the development of modern magic. Many of its members went on to become famous occultists, including Aleister Crowley and Arthur Edward Waite. They helped to popularize the concept of magic and witchcraft, and they developed many of the rituals and practices that are still used today.
The Influence Of Victorian Occultism On Modern Magic
Victorian occultism had a profound impact on the development of modern magic. It helped to shape the beliefs of many people, and it introduced many of the concepts and practices that are still in use today.
One of the most significant contributions of Victorian occultism to modern magic was the concept of ceremonial magic. This involves the use of rituals and ceremonies to communicate with the spirits and achieve spiritual enlightenment. Many of the rituals and practices that are used in ceremonial magic today were developed during the Victorian era.
Another significant contribution of Victorian occultism to modern magic was the development of the tarot. The tarot is a deck of cards that is used for divination and spiritual guidance. It was first developed during the 15th century, but it was popularized during the Victorian era. Many famous occultists, including Aleister Crowley and Arthur Edward Waite, wrote extensively on the tarot.
The Legacy Of Victorian Occultism
Victorian occultism had a lasting impact on the world of magic and the supernatural. It helped to popularize the concept of magic and witchcraft, and it introduced many of the rituals and practices that are still in use today.
Today, the legacy of Victorian occultism can be seen in the many books and websites that are dedicated to the study of magic and the supernatural. It has also influenced many modern artists and musicians, who draw inspiration from the mystical and the supernatural.
Overall, Victorian occultism was a fascinating movement that helped to make modern magic what it is today. Its influence can still be seen in many areas of our culture, and it continues to inspire people to explore the mystical and the supernatural.