DeCal

About the Course:

This class will explore Thelema, the psycho-spiritual philosophy espoused by Aleister Crowley in the early 20th Century. Was he a satanist? black magician? the wickedest man in the world? Find out for yourself as we examine the life and work of Aleister Crowley as well as the central theoretical and implementational tenants of Thelema. Topics to be discussed include Will, Love, Ethics and Morals, and relationships between Thelema and other religious traditions such as Buddhism, Hinduism, and Christianity as well as Thelema’s relation to other philosophies, such as those by Nietzsche and Schopenhauer. Thelema will also be placed in a historical context. These topics will be explored primarily through reading texts written by Crowley, including the central work Liber AL vel Legis, also known as the Book of the Law, as well as work by contemporary Thelemic scholars. Artistic works inspired by Thelema will also be examined through the media of music, art, and short films. We are also pleased to announce a guest lecture by Dr. David Shoemaker, the founder of the College of Thelema Northern California, who will speak on Thelemic organizations and initiation.