Genesis of Freemasonry

by David Harrison

Paper Book, 2009

Status

Available

Publication

Lewis Masonic (2009), 224 pages

Description

This book is a revealing but thoroughly enjoyable journey through the intricate history of English Freemasonry. Historian Dr. David Harrison reconstructs the hidden history of the movement, tracing its roots through a mixture of mediaeval guild societies, alchemy and necromancy. He examines the earliest known Freemasons and their obsessions with Solomon’s Temple, alchemy, and prophecy, to the formation of the Grand Lodge in London, which in turn led to rebellions within the Craft throughout England. Harrison also analyzes the role of French immigrant, Dr Jean Theophilus Desaguliers in the development of English Freemasonry, focusing on his involvement with the formation of the mysterious modern Masonic ritual. All Freemasons and more general readers will find much of interest in this fascinating exploration of the very beginnings of Freemasonry, still one of the most mysterious brotherhoods in the world.… (more)

Language

ISBN

0853183228 / 9780853183228

Local notes

Given by Br. Steve Sparrow

Rating

½ (2 ratings; 4.5)

Media reviews

Dr Harrison is a workman of proven skill in the craft

User reviews

LibraryThing member researcher77
The Genesis of Freemasonry is a very revealing book that attempts to answer not only the mysterious origins of the society but how it transformed to attract many famous intellectual Freemasons of the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries, such as Christopher Wren, Nicholas Hawsmoor, Erasmus Darwin,
Show More
Edward Jenner, Alexander Pope and Jonathan Swift (the list could go on!).

It is easy to read despite originally being a PhD, and because of its academic origins, the book is reliable and uses both original source material and published work. It is a book which is a must for both Freemasons and people interested in the mysterious society. It has some excellent pictures of symbolism on gravestones and old lodge rooms. A five star book!
Show Less
LibraryThing member Hilton_Kaufman
Thoroughly researched treatment of the developments of Freemason in the 18th century.

Similar in this library

Page: 0.3885 seconds