19th Century Occult

Question 1

Occult

Answer 1

A catch-all category for knowledge claims that do not fit into established claims of science or religion.

Question 2

Kabbalah

Answer 2

A mystical approach to Judaism developed in medieval Spain, questioning the traditional assumption of God’s omnipotence.

Question 3

Eliphas Levi

Answer 3

Considered one of the fathers of modern occultism, known for his work on magic and symbolism.

Question 4

Rosicrucianism

Answer 4

Derived from the mythic narrative of Christian Rosenkreuz, a secret society claiming to possess ancient and perfect knowledge.

Question 5

freemasons

Answer 5

The largest existing secret society, known for their rituals and philosophical teachings.

Question 6

Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn

Answer 6

A 19th-century magical order that combined elements of Egyptian, Greek, Rosicrucian, and Freemason traditions.

Question 7

Aleister Crowley

Answer 7

Considered the father of modern occultism, founder of the religion of Thelema and influential figure in the 60s “free love” movement.

Question 8

Theosophical Society

Answer 8

Founded in 1875, a society that aimed to synthesize science, religion, and philosophy, with a focus on spiritualism and ancient wisdom.

Question 9

spiritualism

Answer 9

• A belief system centered around communication with spirits of the dead through mediums.
• A movement that gained popularity in the 19th century, providing “evidence” for the existence of the immortal soul and communication with spirits.

Question 10

fox sisters

Answer 10

Margaret and Kate, known for communicating with spirits through rapping on walls in Hydesville, NY.

Question 11

Ouija Board

Answer 11

A tool used in home-based seances to communicate with spirits, often framed as entertainment.

Question 12

Why formation/join occult groups?

Answer 12

Emerged in the late 19th century as a response to turbulent social times, offering a sense of community and a way to combat social norms and structures.

Question 13

Nazi Occultism

Answer 13

The Nazi party grew out of several occult groups, with beliefs rooted in notions of Aryan superiority and ancient pagan practices.

Question 14

Swastika

Answer 14

Originally a symbol of good fortune, it was adopted by the Nazis and turned into a symbol of evil.

Question 15

Mein Kampf

Answer 15

Hitler’s autobiographical manifesto, in which he outlined his political ideology and beliefs.

Question 16

Hitler’s Propaganda

Answer 16

Hitler used persuasive speech and showmanship to spread his message, playing rival factions against each other and blaming Jews for Germany’s betrayal.

Question 17

Master Race

Answer 17

Hitler aimed to create a new “master race” through brainwashing, athleticism, and the survival of the fittest.

Question 18

Hitler’s Astrological Beliefs

Answer 18

While there is no evidence that Hitler consulted astrologers, his deputy Hess believed in astrology and attempted to negotiate a peace treaty with Great Britain based on astrological alignments.

Question 19

Hitler’s Final Plan

Answer 19

In his bunker, Hitler prepared for the destruction of Germany, ordering the demolition of infrastructure and ultimately committing suicide with his mistress, Eva Braun.