The Great Initiates

Edouard Schuré (1841–1929) is a French writer, philosopher, and musicologist; the author of novels, plays, and historical, poetic, and philosophical works. He is known above all for his book “The Great Initiates,” which reveals the timeless theme of the clash between reason and faith. Applying the method of esotericism to the history of religions leads to results of the greatest significance. Here, the esoteric doctrine is not presented as an abstract teaching, but as a living force that passes through the souls of wise men and prophets of the most different times—great Initiates—and reflects in the living action of historical drama of developing mankind.