Arcane Worlds: New Frontiers in the Study of Esotericism

The study of esotericism is a broad and many-faceted field. In the past, it has been described as 'othered knowledge', and esotericism has often been treated as a fringe pseudo-science, or at best, forgotten or obsolete knowledge. However, in recent years, there has been a steadily growing movement within the academy to study esotericism in its many expressesions within a scholarly framework.

In this three-week summer course, you will study with some of the most respected academics in the fields of esotericism, alchemy, gnosticism, art and occultism, conspiracy theories, the New Age, and psychedelic culture. During classes, students will make use of primary sources, as well as secondary literature that clarify the way in which esoteric ideas have circulated and continue to circulate in both mainstream culture and more marginal contexts.

Course leader

Dr. Marco Pasi, the Director of the Centre for the History of Hermetic Philosophy and Related Currents.

Target group

For current university students (advanced Bachelors, Masters, Postgraduate) and professionals from any discipline who already have a solid background in studying and thinking about these topics. A general interest in the humanities and social sciences and an open mind are necessary.

Course aim

Arcane Worlds is an advanced-level summer programme with the goal of bringing together participants who are passionate about the esoteric and the occult, enabling them to delve deeply into how these studies, traditions, and related currents can be comprehended through developing a flexible yet rigorous scholarly framework.

Fee info

EUR 1750: The tuition fee includes all course materials, events, site visits/excursions, a public transit card and lunch on class days.
EUR 1000: This is the approximate housing fee for the duration of the programme. Arranging housing through our office is optional. The room will be a private room with private facilities.

Scholarships

Please see our website for up-to-date scholarship opportunities.