Ghost Land

Or Researches into the Mysteries of Occultism

Cambridge University Press

A lecturer and writer on spiritualism, Emma Hardinge Britten (1823–99) acted as a medium in both England and America. Allegedly written by an enigmatic nobleman, 'Chevalier Louis de B.', Ghost Land was prepared for publication by Britten in 1876. The author's real identity is unknown, and scholars have attributed the work to various personalities, including Ernest de Bunsen, Britten's husband William, and Britten herself. The book is divided into two parts, 'The Neophyte' and 'The Adept'. Each part includes a series of sketches from the life of the author, who was initiated into the ancient mysteries of the occult. The book also describes the spiritual encounters of an Englishman referred to as 'John Cavendish Dudley'. Britten claimed to have translated the French parts of the manuscript and edited the English sections. Of enduring interest in the history of spiritualism, the work reflects a strong theosophical influence.

Autoren/Hrsg.

Hardinge, Emma

Fachgebiete

• Sozialwissenschaften Ethnologie | Volkskunde Volkskunde Historische & Regionale Volkskunde
• Sozialwissenschaften Ethnologie | Volkskunde Volkskunde Volkskunde: Sitten, Traditionen, Mythen, Legenden
• Geisteswissenschaften Religionswissenschaft Alternative Glaubensformen Okkultismus und andere religiöse Praktiken
• Geisteswissenschaften Geschichtswissenschaft Geschichtswissenschaft Allgemein Historiographie
• Geisteswissenschaften Geschichtswissenschaft Geschichtliche Themen Kultur- und Ideengeschichte

Inhalt

Part I. The Neophyte: Author's preface; Editor's introduction; 1. Interesting spiritual mysteries and experiences; 2. Marvel of magnetic influence; 3. Professor Muller; 4. Zwingler; 5. Magic in England; 6. Magicians and spirit mediums; 7. Philosophy of obsession; 8. Stray wanderers; 9. The letter; 10. In the wilderness; 11. Awakening to real life; 12. Diary of John Cavedish Dudley; 13. Mr Dudley's diary (cont.); 14. Mr Dudley's diary (cont.); 15. Mr Dudley's diary (cont.); 16. Mr Dudley's diary (cont.); Part II. The Adept: 17. Order of the universe; 18. In active public service; 19. The dharma sala of the vaidya; 20. Occultism; 21. The angel of morning; 22. The enchantress; 23. Black magic or vaudooism; 24. Psychology; 25. Diary of Lady Blanche; 26. Close of the life episode.