Abstract The central thesis of this paper is the meaning of the Platonic concepts of the forms and particulars as they relate to an understanding of the occult. The difference between the forms and particulars, it is argued, is equivalent to the difference between the unknown and the known, or the strange and the familiar. The occult is viewed as the knowledge of the unknown. This view of the forms and particulars is applied using Freudian and Jungian theoretical perspectives and is applied to an analysis of "Christabel" by Coleridge, the "Blair Witch Project", and "The Fall of the House of Usher" by Edgar Allen Poe.
Table of Contents
1. Introduction
2. Platonic Forms and Particulars
2.1. The Occult 3. Critical Perspective
4. Analysis of "The Blair Witch Project" and "The Fall of the House of Usher" and "Christabel"
5. Conclusion
From the Paper "In his philosophy Plato distinguishes between the world of reality and the world of illusion. The world of reality and timeless truth is that of the forms. The word of illusion refers to the world of particulars and everyday experience. We exist during our lifetimes in this world of the senses or the world of particulars. For Plato and Socrates, death is the escape from the imprisonment of the world of particulars which is the reason why Socrates in the Phaedo states that he welcomes death. He believes that the soul will continue after death and the knowledge that he seeks as a philosopher will be encountered in the death state."
Abstract This paper examines how, throughout the novel, "Ragtime," several characters express interest in the occult, most notably, Harry Houdini and Pierpont Morgan, and how these two men from opposite ends of society both begin their search in response to the inadequacies of the material world.
From the Paper "Throughout the novel Ragtime, several characters express interest in the occult, most notably, Harry Houdini and Pierpont Morgan. These two men from opposite ends of society both begin their search in response to the inadequacies of the material world. Houdini becomes interested when he finds himself unable to accept his mother's death; without her, his world is empty. Pierpont Morgan's interest also blooms later in life. As he faces his own death, Morgan becomes dissatisfied with his enormous wealth, realizing that worldly affluence will mean nothing to him after his passing. In life, Morgan is a man of power, residing at the top of society, yet in the face of death, he is just as ignorant and helpless as anyone else. His search for occult wisdom relating to death and the afterlife is an attempt for him to feel once more in control."
Abstract In the past several decades, more people in American culture have been turning to alternate forms of spiritualism. People are rejecting the established organized religions and switching to more individualized forms of intuitive knowledge. The paper shows that in contemporary American society this clashes with the established norms of religion and therefore these forms of spiritualism have been termed as cults. Many perceive them as dangerous to the values of society, yet people continue to be fascinated by these unfamiliar New Age forms of spiritual guidance. The paper shows that as American society progresses into the twenty-first century, old forms of religion are not providing the spiritual needs of many people in society. In addition, as science seeks new "truths" about the physical world, more people are doubting its direct benefits to mankind. The paper concludes that they are therefore seeking to understand more of the spiritual side of their existence. As a result, interest in the occult continues to escalate.
From the Paper "This connection with science finds its basis over twenty-five centuries ago with the mathematical knowledge established by Pythagorus. His insistence on the importance of abstract numbers influenced the beliefs of numerology, fortune-tellers, mystics, as well as tarot card readers23. In addition, the importance of symbols in many occult sciences is similar to that of physicists who use symbols on an everyday basis yet they accept that these symbols relate to things which are beyond their knowledge24. As a result, both science and New Age beliefs deal with the unknowable."
Abstract In this article, the writer discusses that the concept of superstition is often commonly understood only in a vague sense as a term that is somehow related to the occult, magic and the paranormal. One of the central aims of this paper is to show that superstitions are often the remnants of knowledge that has been lost or neglected by modern science and forgotten and that they are in many cases not just false beliefs. This approach to the meaning of superstition is one that will allow the reader to understand the term in the context of and in relation to the occult and paranormal traditions in the world. The writer concludes that in the final analysis, the term superstition should be seen as the possible remnant of a larger body of knowledge, which is commonly known as the occult tradition. In this sense, superstition is understood as a watered down version of some greater truth. However, the writer notes that it should also be borne in mind that not all superstitions can be seen in this light and that many are fictitious constructions of fantasy.
From the Paper "These definitions point to two different ways of looking at superstition. The first and more conventional view sees superstition, as an empty and fanciful set of beliefs that have no foundation in any reality. This is a view that sees superstition as separate from the occult and paranormal traditions of knowledge.
"The second understanding of superstitions is related to the perception of superstitions as linked to other religious views or to the larger occult traditions in religious systems throughout the world. This meaning is more in line with the idea of occult and paranormal traditions. This view would therefore explain superstitions as being based to a greater or lesser extent on knowledge and lost traditions; or at least having its roots in such knowledge rather than seeing it as mere blind faith and empty fancy."
From the Paper "The purpose of this paper is to discuss the "New Age" movement. It will be seen that this represents in many ways the changes that society is currently undergoing in its shift from an industrial way of life to the values of an information age. The "New Age" movement is one that gradually grew out of the ideals of the 1960s counter-culture movements in America and elsewhere. In that decade, the so-called baby boom generation came of age and began exploring and developing its own value systems, which often sharply contrasted with the established standards of the previous age. There was a general understanding among the youth of that period that the world was entering the "Age of Aquarius" and that new lifestyles would have to emerge out of that transition. As such, there was an explosion of interest in (...)"
Abstract This paper explores the society of the period by examining the impact the Renaissance had on England, and the fact that its diverse trends had been elaborated into divergent and sometimes extreme forms.
The paper describes of the origin of the period's obsession with the occult and the mystical, and explains the plethora of fantastic and mythic creatures running throughout the gamut of Elizabethan theatre.
- T A B L E - O F - C O N T E N T S -
INTRODUCTION
CHAPTER I ? The Magus in Society, The Life of John Dee
CHAPTER II ? Knowledge as Power, Representation of Magic as Knowledge
CHAPTER III ? Marlowe and the Magic of Faustus
CHAPTER IV ? Societal Instability and the Power of the Unknown
CHAPTER V ? The Connotations of Magic Use as Related to the Goals
CHAPTER VI ? Prospero's Relation to the Magus in Renaissance Society
CHAPTER VII ? The Debate over the Morality of Prospero
CHAPTER IIX ? The Ambiguity of Prospero's Morality
CHAPTER IX ? The Failure of Prospero
CHAPTER X ? The Meaning of the Magus
CONCLUSION
BIBLIOGRAPHY
From the Paper The presence of mystical themes is prevalent throughout the theatrical works of the Elizabethan era, almost every play had a ghost, monster, witch, alchemist, etc. of some sort contained within it. What was the origin of the period's obsession with the occult and the mystical, why is there such a plethora of fantastic and mythic creatures running throughout the gamut of Elizabethan theatre?
Tags:occult, play, cult, magical, medieval, John, Dee
Abstract This paper reviews sources claiming that "Harry Potter" is not a harmless literary fantasy, but rather, conservative Christians claim, that Rowling's wizards, witchcraft, and magic may draw impressionable young readers into the occult. The author points out that the American Library Association (ALA) reports the Harry Potter series now has the dubious distinction of being the most censored series of books in America. The paper relates that many other accepted literary treasures, such as "A Christmas Carol", ? Macbeth?, ? The Lord of the Rings?, "King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table", "Alice in Wonderland", "The Wizard of Oz", and "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory", also contain elements of the mystical.
Table of Contents
Specific Anti-Harry Issues Raised by Conservatives and Christians
Seeing the Truth and the Fun in J. K. Rowling's Sparkling Story-Telling
Conclusion
From the Paper "In Alamogordo, New Mexico, Jack Brock, pastor of the Christ Community Church, recently "led a mass burning of Harry Potter books"and told reporters that the books "encourage our youth to learn more about witches, warlocks and sorcerers, and those things are an abomination to God and to me".? In Lewiston, Maine, a local group called ?The Jesus Party,? led by the Rev. Dough Taylor, announced a book-burning party in the public park, but when the fire department refused to give his organization a permit, he took scissors to a Potter book and shredded it into a trashcan. Officials of the city's public library in Jacksonville, Florida, have abandoned a plan to distribute "Hogwarts certificates" encouraging young people to read. Why? Because, Boston reports, ?Local resident, John Miesburg, complained that the books promoted "the evil of witchcraft".? "
Abstract This paper discusses the movie "The Sixth Sense" by M. Night Shyamalan. It explains that the movie was very popular because people are generally obsessed with the occult and the afterlife and that most movies on this theme are block-busters.
From the Paper "Many people claim to have communicated with those who have passed over to the other side. They will tell you that they have felt the presence of their deceased friend or family member. Others have experienced contact with the dead through dreams or objects they
have left behind. These encounters are mysterious-defying both reason and explanation. But to those who have been blessed by them, they are real as rain and just as refreshing. Sometimes, however, people need a little help dealing with such phenomena. And, as many of the world's religions acknowledge, there are things the living can do for the dead. These are the themes of The Sixth Sense, one of the most heartfelt and deeply provocative films of 1999."
Abstract This paper explains that while the Romantic period was known for its intense appreciation of nature, it also exhibited a heightened interest in the occult, the gothic and the strange phenomena as reflected in Mary Shelley's "Frankenstein". The author points out the most striking similarity between Victor Frankenstein and the monster, both of which were created as Byronic figures, is, that like his creator, the monster also shuns society but simply because of society's repulsion of him. The paper relates that Frankenstein, a social misfit, is driven by an intense desire to do something outrageously different in order to earn high social status and immense fame and recognition, which shows his deep yearning for social superiority.
From the Paper "The heroes and central characters that emerged during the literature of this period were thus usually viewed as the anti-social specie with some dark attributes and deep capacity for analysis and observation of human nature. In this novel too, we notice that both Victor and the monster share some common traits such as deep intellectual tendency to analyze and study human nature. Both are dark heroes with negative characteristics who are often instigated against the society due to the cruel behavior of the people around him. Their anti-social attitude emerged from mistreatment of society and they both in their own unique way rebelled against the fixed social rules and norms. When the society shunned them, both began displaying a negative streak, which shows that unlike the traditional hero, there is no redeeming quality or "heroic virtue" that could help them emerge as a real hero in the end."
Abstract This paper examines Poe's poem "Ulalume" and the short story "The Imp of the Perverse". The paper explains that Poe's life as a writer was steeped in the occult; a human reaction to what we cannot know, to the mysteries that still persist despite the advances of science and knowledge. The paper portrays Poe's characterization of death in these two works.
From the Paper "No one who has read Edgar Allan Poe would suggest that the author does not deal in the macabre. Poe's famous writings--such as "The Raven" or "The Cask of Amontillado"--are classic examples of the manifestation of the occult in literature. The occult, contrary to popular misconception, isn't a word that is simply interchangeable with devil worship or witchcraft. The occult references the darker, less rational, side of the human condition. All of man's experiences that escape the ability of science and logic to explain can fall into the realm of the occult (Hart). Thus, Poe's life as a writer was steeped in the occult, as his work routinely dealt with subjects and themes that extended beyond the reach of mortal rationality. In particular, Poe is well known for intimate, if bleak, portrayals of death."
Abstract This paper looks at angelology from several points of view. Firstly, it shows that many are skeptical about the existence of angels, since they cannot be physically perceived with the senses. Thus these people take a rational and scientific view of the issue, explaining angels in religious literature in rational, naturalistic terms. It then explains the religious (Christian) view where the Bible features angels in both the Old and New Testaments. Such evidence is enough for Christians to justify a religious belief in angels. Finally, the paper covers the more occult view of actual current experiences with angels. Some people claim to have had experiences such as dreams and visions during which angels visited them. This, like all other occult phenomena including mediumism, is a highly controversial issue. The paper describes the nature of angels and gives evidence of their existence from the above-mentioned points of view. It concludes that, in the same way as beauty, the reality of angels is in the eye of the beholder.
From the Paper "The supernatural concept of angels as it is depicted in a society not necessarily attached to any religion is therefore now considered. Many religious persons have termed any reference to the supernatural outside of religious scripture as dangerously "occult". The appearance of angels in society and the media is therefore a highly controversial issue. A television show such as "Touched by an Angel" for example has been rejected by many Christians as unbiblical, and thus perpetuating the misconceptions attached to these creatures. However, even biblical conceptions of angels appear to disagree more than anything else, and surely each person has the right to investigate and prove the matter for him- or herself. It thus appears to be a much more personal issue than some religious fanatics would admit."
Tags: Demythologization, Rudolph, Steiner, Satan, Chino, Michael
An account of the witchtrials in Salem, examining the background, the hysteria, and three individuals- Sarah Good, Bridget Bishop, and Rebecca Nurse, who were tried and hanged for witchcraft.
2,875 words (approx. 11.5 pages), 4 sources, 2002, $ 85.95
Abstract This paper provides an in-depth look at the witch-hunt hysteria that overtook the village of Salem, Massachusetts in the late 17th century. The author discusses the rigid Puritan lifestyle, class systems, possible motivations behind the witch hunting, and the well-known story that started the anarchy, that of the Reverend Parris' household, plagued by suspicion of the occult.
From the Paper "In the late 17th century, the lion quietly walked among the inhabitants of Salem , Massachusetts . Zealously obedient to this admonishment from the apostle Peter, the pious folk of New England searched their souls ? and those of their neighbors ? for even the slightest stain. These Puritan's believed it was their objective to stare down that lion, until Judgment Day saw him vanquished. In the spring and summer of 1692, that great lion roared, and brought with it devastation that tore Salem apart. Nineteen men and women, all having been tried, and convicted of witchcraft, were carted to Gallows Hill, a barren slope on the outskirts of Salem Village , for hanging. Hundreds of others were arrested and imprisoned on witchcraft charges. Dozens languished in jail for months without trials. Then, almost as soon as it had begun, the hysteria that swept through Puritan Massachusetts ended."
Abstract This paper looks at the many similarities in Emily Bronte's "Wuthering Heights", and Charlotte Bronte's novel, "Jane Eyre". The author discusses the gothic elements present in both books: the dark, the hidden, the secrets, and the brooding characters like Heathcliff and Mr. Rochester. The paper examines the element of the occult in both novels: ghosts, visions, the dead Catharine, and insane Bertha Mason Rochester.
From the Paper:
"
Traditionally, Gothic elements were constituted by the ambiguous, the chaotic, the unenlightened, the supposedly irrational, the dark, the hidden, and the secret. According to literary handbooks, Gothic is a matter of d?cor and mood, of an obscurely pleasurable terror, of the nostalgic melancholy of ruins and of remote times and places. Conventions familiar in Gothic narratives include a vulnerable/curious heroine, a wealthy/enigmatic hero/villain, and a grand, mysterious dwelling concealing violent secrets."
An examination and discussion of different theories proposed to explain clairvoyance, precognition, psychokinesis and other psi phenomena including electromagnetic radiation and quantum theory.
Abstract The strengths and weakness of various theories including extremely low frequency (ELF) electromagnetic radiation waves and quantum theory as it applies to psi are discussed. Also examined are the problems of scientific paradigm shifts and the possibility that the statistical evidence for psi activity is an "anomaly" in our current paradigm and a precursor to a paradigm shift.
From the Paper "Parapsychology occupies a unique position within the scientific realm. The results of the field are often considered invalid, fraudulent, or insignificant. Psi is often thought to be inconsistent with the current knowledge of physics. Despite the large body of statistical evidence for anomalous cognition, psi will not be widely accepted until a solid, testable physical theory is developed. Although the uncertainties and seemingly illogical consequences of quantum theory seem promising for the development of this sort of theory, as yet none exists."
Tags: elf, occult, paradigm, parapsychology, psychic, quantum, statistics, testing, theory
The paper presents a detailed exploration of serial killers and feminism, using several sources to explore what the feminist film contributes to the understanding by society of serial killers.
Abstract The paper shows that for many years people have studied the patterns and lives of serial killers in the effort to establish how they are created; and other studies are conducted to discuss the pattern of the victims of the serial killers. It shows that since the 1960's the women's movement has been in full force-- from housewife and helpmate to equality in the world between the genders. The paper examines several works which have been published that have examined the feminist role, and reaction to serial killers. Books examined include "In Men, Women and Chainsaws: Gender in the Modern Horror Film" by Carol J. Clover and Mark Seltzer's "Serial Killers: Death and Life in America's Wound Culture".
From the Paper "Chapter six of the book discusses the popular psychology of the serial killer. In this area of the book the reader is taken on a journey of what the popular beliefs are when it comes to serial killers(Seltzer, 1998). This chapter also addresses the victim even if not directly. It manages to dovetail with Clover's opinion that serial killers in films are not the heroes."
