Mysticism and Materialism in the Wake of German Idealism

by W Ezekiel Goggin, Sean Hannan

This book argues that the rediscovery of mystical theology in nineteenth-century Germany not only helped inspire idealism and romanticism, but also planted the seeds of their overcoming by way of critical materialism. Thanks in part to the Neoplatonic turn in the works of J. G. Fichte, as well as the enthusiasm of mining engineer Franz X. von Baader, mystical themes gained a critical currency, and mystical texts returned to circulation. This reawakening of the mystical tradition influenced romantic and idealist thinkers such as Novalis and Hegel, and also shaped later critical interventions by Marx, Benjamin, and Bataille. Rather than rehearsing well-known connections to Swedenborg or Böhme, this study goes back further to the works of Meister Eckhart, Nicholas of Cusa, Catherine of Siena, and Angela of Foligno. The book offers a new perspective on the reception of mystical self-interrogation in nineteenth-century German thought and will appeal to scholars of philosophy, history, theology, and religious studies.

Genres: Philosophy

162 pages, Hardcover

Published March 31, 2022

Reviews

[Bohemian Bluestocking · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such a gem that should be read by everyone with an interest in either or both mysticism and materialism/Marxism as most might refer to it. Each chapter is beautifully written with a lyrical and literary value as well as inspiring recontextualizations and textual analysis of various theorists, poets, philosophers, and saints. You will make many notes in the margins and begin to make your own reflections on texts you have read to see if you can notice such themes or at least read them for such themes. Really impressive academic work that is delightful to read.

[Lamp · Rating 3 out of 5]

原来诺瓦利斯也是一种齐泽克