Aleister Crowley (1875-1947) is one of the most famous and significant authors in the history of western esotericism. Crowley has been long ignored by scholars of religion whilst the stories of magical and sexual practice which circulate about him continue to attract popular interest. "Aleister Crowley and the Temptation of Politics" looks at the man behind the myth - by setting him firmly within the politics of his time - and the development of his ideas through his extensive and extraordinarily varied writings. Crowley was a rationalist, sympathetic to the values of the Enlightenment, but also a romantic and a reactionary. His search for an alternative way to express his religious feelings led him to elaborate his own vision of social and political change. Crowley's complex politics led to his involvement with many key individuals, organisations and groups of his day - the secret service of various countries, the German Nazi party, Russian political activists, journalists and politicians of various persuasions, as well as other writers - both in Europe and America. "Aleister Crowley and the Temptation of Politics" presents a life of ideas, an examination of a man shaped by and shaping the politics of his times.

Dubbed the 'great beast', Aleister Crowley has a terrifying reputation. He dabbled in the occult, was addicted to opiates, was admired and befriended by a host of celebrities, and many who associated with him died tragically in mysterious circumstances. Here, in this new and challenging appraisal of Crowley's life, Roger Hutchinson lifts the smokescreen of mythology to reveal a truly astonishing figure.

Provides a new insight into Crowley's life as a magician and literary figure. identifies and gives an analysis of Crowley's poetry. places him to the context of Edwardian Britain's addiction to the cult of pan. Paul Newman is a well established author and expert on the occult. he is the editor of Abraxus magazine.

Contains 4000 entries listing the published works of late Victorian poets (1880-1899). Arranged alphabetically by author, the work includes biographical information, bibliographical details of published works and cross-references to other names. It lists many minor poets unrecorded elsewhere.