
Mysticism (Annotated)
Enriched Edition. A Study of the Nature and Development of Man's Spiritual ConsciousnessBy Evelyn UnderhillLength27h 52m
About this audiobook
Evelyn Underhill's Mysticism is a landmark exploration of the mystical life as both a psychological process and a spiritual vocation. Moving with lucid, often luminous prose, Underhill traces the soul's progress through awakening, purgation, illumination, the dark night, and union. Written in conversation with William James, Neoplatonism, and the Christian contemplative tradition, the book combines comparative learning with a distinctly literary sensitivity to symbol, metaphor, and inward experience. Underhill (1875–1941), an English Anglo-Catholic writer, poet, and spiritual director, brought unusual erudition and imaginative sympathy to religious experience. Her wide reading in medieval mystics—especially Ruysbroeck, Teresa of Ávila, John of the Cross, and Julian of Norwich—shaped her conviction that mysticism is not eccentric emotion but disciplined transformation. Her own spiritual journey, from aesthetic fascination to committed Christian devotion, informs the book's seriousness and urgency. Mysticism is recommended to readers seeking a foundational modern account of contemplative spirituality, especially those interested in theology, literature, psychology, or religious history. Though some assumptions reflect its Edwardian context, its intellectual range and reverent insight remain compelling.
This enriched edition has been carefully crafted to add value to your reading experience.
- A succinct Introduction situates the work's timeless appeal and themes.
- The Synopsis outlines the central plot, highlighting key developments without spoiling critical twists.
- A detailed Historical Context immerses you in the era's events and influences that shaped the writing.
- A thorough Analysis dissects symbols, motifs, and character arcs to unearth underlying meanings.
- Reflection questions prompt you to engage personally with the work's messages, connecting them to modern life.
- Hand‐picked Memorable Quotes shine a spotlight on moments of literary brilliance.
- Interactive footnotes clarify unusual references, historical allusions, and archaic phrases for an effortless, more informed read.
Audiobook details
GenreSpirituality and Religion
Length27 hrs 52 mins
Narrated byListen with 1,000+ voices
FormateBook with Audio
Publish dateNov 1, 2018
LanguageEnglish
Table of contents
1Introduction
2Introduction
3Synopsis
4Historical Context
5Preface
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6Part I The Mystic Fact
7Chapter 1 The Point of Departure
8Chapter 2 Mysticism and Vitalism
9Chapter 3 Mysticism and Psychology
10Chapter 4 The Characteristics of Mysticism
11Chapter 5 Mysticism and Theology
12Chapter 6 Mysticism and Symbolism
13Chapter 7 Mysticism and Magic
14Part II The Mystic Way
15Chapter 1 Introductory
16Chapter 2 The Awakening of the Self
17Chapter 3 The Purification of the Self
18Chapter 4 The Illumination of the Self
19Chapter 5 Voices and Visions
20Chapter 6 Introversion, Part I. Recollection and Qui
21Chapter 7 Introversion. Part II. Contemplation
22Chapter 8 Ecstacy and Rapture
23Chapter 9 The Dark Night of the Soul
24Chapter 10 The Unitive Life
25Conclusion
26Historical Sketch of Mysticism (Appendix)
27Bibliography & Bibliographical Note (pt. 1)
28Bibliography & Bibliographical Note (pt. 2)
29Analysis
30Reflection
31Memorable Quotes