"Bygone Beliefs: Being a Series of Excursions in the Byways of Thought" by H. Stanley Redgrove delves into the fascinating, and sometimes strange, historical beliefs and practices that have fallen out of favor with mainstream science and society. Here's a breakdown of the book's likely content based on the title and chapter information:
Focus:
- The book explores a range of "bygone beliefs," meaning historical ideas and practices once widely held but now considered outdated or even fringe. These beliefs likely stem from various fields like folklore, mythology, alchemy, and early medicine.
Structure:
- The book is structured as a series of "excursions," suggesting it takes the reader on individual journeys through specific bygone beliefs. Each chapter might focus on a distinct theme or practice.
Possible Topics (based on Chapter Titles):
- Medieval Thought: This chapter might explore the philosophical and scientific worldview prevalent during the Middle Ages.
- Pythagoras and his Philosophy: This section would likely delve into the ideas and teachings of the ancient Greek philosopher Pythagoras, who influenced mathematics, music, and mysticism.
- Medicine and Magic: This chapter could explore the historical connection between medical practices and magical beliefs. It might discuss the use of amulets, talismans, or herbal remedies based on symbolic or supernatural principles.
- Superstitions Concerning Birds: This section would likely delve into folklore and beliefs associated with different bird species and their perceived influence on fortune or events.
- The Powder of Sympathy: This chapter's title suggests it explores a specific historical medical belief or practice, possibly related to sympathetic magic or the idea of influencing one object or person by manipulating another.
- The Belief in Talismans: This section would likely explore the historical belief in talismans as objects imbued with magical properties to bring good luck, protection, or other benefits.
- Ceremonial Magic in Theory and Practice: This chapter might delve into the historical practices and theories of ceremonial magic, which often involved rituals, symbols, and attempts to influence supernatural forces.
- Architectural Symbolism: This section could explore the symbolic meanings and hidden messages some cultures incorporated into the design and construction of buildings.
- The Quest of the Philosopher's Stone: This chapter's title suggests it explores the historical pursuit of the Philosopher's Stone in alchemy, a legendary substance believed to transform base metals into gold, grant immortality, or unlock other powerful properties.
- The Phallic Element in Alchemical Doctrine: This section's title suggests it delves into a specific and perhaps controversial aspect of alchemical symbolism, where the phallus might have represented creative power or other hidden meanings.
- Other Potential Topics:
- The book might explore other areas like the Cambridge Platonists (philosophical movement), the occult, or the search for the elixir of life.
Overall, Bygone Beliefs offers a glimpse into the fascinating and sometimes bizarre world of historical thought and practices. Redgrove likely presents these beliefs in an objective and informative way, allowing readers to understand the context and motivations behind them.
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