Ashe, Geoffrey

The Secret History of the Hell-Fire Clubs: From Rabelais and John Dee to Anton LaVey and Timothy Leary

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ISBN 13:
9781591433484
author:
Ashe, Geoffrey
format:
Paperback / softback
publisher:
Bear & Company
language:
English
Publication Year:
2019
Pages:
304
Dimensions:
22.9 x 15.2 x 1.8 centimetres (0
Genre:
History, Social History, Health & Wellbeing,
Condition:
New
Availability:
Item usually sent within 4 working days
£15.15

Description

The Secret History of the Hell-Fire Clubs The Hell-Fire Clubs of 18th century England were a far cry from the debauched rakes of popular imagination. In reality, these clubs of upper-class men were involved in a complex mix of blasphemy, ritual, and political intrigue. This book explores the origins of these clubs, tracing their roots back to the work of François Rabelais and the magical practices of John Dee. The author examines the life and activities of Sir Francis Dashwood, a founding member of the Society of the Dilettanti and the scandalous Permissive Society at Medmenham. He also looks at the first Hell-Fire Club, founded by Philip, Duke of Wharton, in 1720, and other clubs that emerged throughout England, Scotland, and Ireland. The result is a nuanced and fascinating history of a movement that was both libertine and quasi-magical. Through its exploration of the Hell-Fire Clubs, this book reveals a complex and often contradictory world of politics, philosophy, and personal freedom. With its unique blend of history, biography, and cultural analysis, it offers a fresh perspective on a fascinating period of British history.

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