In 'The Forge and the Crucible,' Mircea Eliade delves into the profound symbolism of metallurgy across cultures, exploring how the ancient craft of forging metals parallels the transformative processes of human existence. He presents the forge as a sacred space, where elemental forces collide and crises of identity are shaped into new forms. Eliade's rich analysis reveals how myths related to metalworking reflect deeper spiritual truths about creation and renewal. This compelling investigation prompts readers to reflect on the alchemical nature of their own lives and the inner 'forges' that shape their identities. Join Eliade on a fascinating journey to discover not just the art of crafting metals, but the transformative power of confronting chaos in pursuit of meaning.
By Mircea Eliade
Published: 1978
"In the act of creation, we transcend the mundane, transforming raw materials into vessels of meaning, where the sacred and the profane intertwine."
Primitive man's discovery of the ability to change matter from one state to another brought about a profound change in spiritual behavior. In The Forge and the Crucible, Mircea Eliade follows the ritualistic adventures of these ancient societies, adventures rooted in the people's awareness of an awesome new power. The new edition of The Forge and the Crucible contains an updated appendix, in which Eliade lists works on Chinese alchemy published in the past few years. He also discusses the importance of alchemy in Newton's scientific evolution.
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“In the act of creation, we transcend the mundane, transforming raw materials into vessels of meaning, where the sacred and the profane intertwine.”
The Forge and the Crucible
By Mircea Eliade
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Mircea Eliade (1907-1986) was a Romanian historian of religion, fiction writer, and philosopher, renowned for his scholarly contributions to the understanding of the sacred and the historical context of religion. Eliade's notable works include 'The Sacred and the Profane', 'Myth and Reality', and 'The History of Religious Ideas', which reflect his interest in the interplay between myth, ritual, and spiritual experience. His writing style blends rigorous analysis with a poetic sensibility, making complex ideas accessible to a wider audience. Eliade is also recognized for his novels, such as 'The Forbidden Forest' and 'Noaptea de Sânziene', which often explore themes of spiritual longing and existential inquiry.
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