Evelyn Underhill

Classic study by noted authority provides accessible introduction to mysticism and its relation to metaphysics, psychology, theology, magic, and symbolism. Also, detailed study of mystical consciousness: awakening of the self, purification of the self, voices and visions, ecstasy and rapture, dark night of the soul, much more.

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 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.

Written for anyone who wishes to pursue a thorough investigation into the mystical life, this text provides an introduction to mysticism and a complete guide to the mystical path.

This collection of essays serves as a concise introduction to Underhill's wide-ranging thought about spiritual life.

This new collection of essays offers an introduction to one of this century's foremost writers on mysticism. This volume considers in depth the ordination of women, the promotion of social reform, and ways of providing an enlightened education for our children. The authors practical approach to living the spiritual life is also illustrated in her essays on prayer and contemplation. This book forms part of Oneworld's "mystical classics of the world" series.

Drawing on sources from all over the world, the author provides an in-depth and comprehensive exploration of humanity's mystical experience. It defines mysticism from different perspectives, sets out its characteristics and explains its relationship to psychology, theology and symbolism. It explores the "mystic way", the stages of mystic consciousness from the self to the union with the Absolute. The book also includes a summary of European mysticism. In 1921, Evelyn Underhill was Upton Lecturer on the Philosophy of Religion at Manchester College, Oxford, the first woman to give a series of lectures on theology at Oxford. But, it was her writing that brought her an international reputation and a fellowship at King's College for Women.