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A History Of Secret Societies
by
Arkon Daraul,
Daraul
Almost every social system throughout history has produced its secret societies. Here is a unique study of such societies from earliest recorded times to the present, along with an analysis of their forms, rituals, and beliefs. The author has traveled extensively to gather documentation. The Charcoal Burners of Italy, the Castrators of Russia, the Old Man of the Mountains,...more
Paperback, 256 pages
Published
November 1st 2000
by Citadel
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More a study of religion than societies, I think; most were really more what I would call mystery cults. And not terribly secret, most of them I found the Sufi and the followers of the Peacock Angel the most interesting. I could imagine joining them.
In the chapter on witchcraft I started wondering, though. He complained that other researchers of the phenomenon picked and chose what evidence to base their conclusions on, then went ahead and did the same thing. "Disregarding, this, this and this,...more
In the chapter on witchcraft I started wondering, though. He complained that other researchers of the phenomenon picked and chose what evidence to base their conclusions on, then went ahead and did the same thing. "Disregarding, this, this and this,...more
A light and cursory reading that mixes scholarship with sensationalism. When considering a topic as broad as secret societies, it is seemingly impossible to adequately cover all of them. The selected societies in this text are an odd mixture of religious groups, criminal bands, and social phenomena. Some readers may raise an eye brow that Sufis and Buddhists are included alongside the Illuminati and Rosicrucians.
The study of each group also takes unusual paths. The author focuses a lot on cerem...more
The study of each group also takes unusual paths. The author focuses a lot on cerem...more
This is a "classic" from the field of Conspiratorial studies, which I've started many times over the last twelve or so years but never finished until now. Written by author Idries Shah under a pen name ("Arkon Daraul"), this is an old book with some interesting bits to it. Shah plays a little fast and loose with many of his allegations, but he has something of value to add. He claims to have had contact with several of the societies he writes about, but is vague with details. He also fails to ci...more
it seems a bit cursory, but does include a wide range of societies. who knew russians were so into castration? it's kind of like summer/beach reading i think. i'm zipping right through. i can't really understand the organization. i thought it might be chronological, but the more recent ones don't seem to be in order perhaps? i think a better approach to the book might have been to show how gnosticism is the basis for all the secret societies that have shaped modern history. i really wish there w...more
Interesting high-level overview of various societies. Look elsewhere for depth.
Edition/Condition: Trade paperback/Used
Apr 09, 2010
David
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Thorough, engaging and well planned out. Though not exhaustive, "A History of Secret Societies" provides a nice introduction to various teachings and spiritual expressions.
May 03, 2013
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