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Evelyn Underhill's classic book on mysticism shows not only the historic development of Christian mysticism and its influence on the Church, but gives a deep insight into the spiritual growth of the individual mystics, their struggles, achievements and influence.Covering the whole development of the Christian Church from St. Paul to the present century, the author illustrates the differing backgrounds and approach of many of the great mystics such as St. Augustine of Hippo, whose writings show more helped to create the Church's understanding of its mystical character; and St. Francis of Assisi, whose example proved an inspiration to many. The book gives much more than an opportunity to meet the great mystics: it also provides a framework for the analysis of true mysticism and false, contrasting Catherine of Sienna, a girl of the people whose transcendental mysticism benefited many in an age of ecclesiastical degradation, with the well-born and beautiful Madame Guyon, whose excesses brought mysticism into disrepute. Evelyn Underhill illuminates the whole of her subject by drawing attention to the differences of approach that can bring mortals along the road to the divine, from the zealous militancy of a Loyola to the passivity of the Quietists.This absorbing study by one of the great writers on mysticism covers every aspect of the subject and gives a clear understanding of the mystics' world in writing that is both informative and stimulating. show lessTags
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A quite detailed and well documented history of Christian mysticism and its influence on the Church, from the early centuries to the 20th century, including a special section on Protestant mystics.
Also, for more information on Catholic Mystics, see http://www.mysticsofthechurch.com
Also, for more information on Catholic Mystics, see http://www.mysticsofthechurch.com
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The Essential Western Mystics
66 works; 4 members
Author Information
89+ Works 4,880 Members
Evelyn Underhill, a novelist and poet, published her first book in 1902 but her growing interest in mysticism led in 1911 to her greatest work, Mysticism. This classic text immediately established Underhill as the leading writer in the field, and she continued her work by writing many more significant and acclaimed books and essays. In 1921 she show more became Upton Lecturer in the Philosophy of Religion at Manchester College, and was the first woman to give a series of lectures on theology at Oxford. show less
Series
Classifications
- Genres
- Religion & Spirituality, Nonfiction, History
- DDC/MDS
- 248.2 — Religion Christian practice & observance Christian experience, practice, life Religious experience
- LCC
- BV5075 .U6 — Philosophy, Psychology and Religion Practical Theology Practical Theology Practical religion. The Christian life Mysticism
- BISAC
Statistics
- Members
- 202
- Popularity
- 161,860
- Reviews
- 1
- Rating
- (3.43)
- Languages
- English
- Media
- Paper, Ebook
- ISBNs
- 9
- ASINs
- 9
