The symbolism and use of the number twelve in organizing ancient societies • Connects the zodiac, the twelve months of the year, and the political divisions of ancient nations • Explores
Faivre (religious studies, E. P. H. E., Sorbonne) surveys the current state of research into esotericism, and explores three main strands of it from the Renaissance to the 20th century. He traces the
Choosing among various meanings given to the word in modern languages, Faivre (emeritus religious studies, Ecole Pratique des Hautes Etudes, Sorbonne) examines esotericism as a group of specific histo
Known for speaking with the birds, for professing poverty, receiving the stigmata and for initiating the Franciscan order, Francis of Assisi is one of the most radical and inspiring figures in church
