OR

source:wikipedia.org
12 Oct, 1875
01 Dec, 1947
Heroin addiction
British
Novelist
72
Aleister Crowley, born Edward Alexander Crowley on October 12, 1875, in Royal Leamington Spa, Warwickshire, England, was a complex and controversial figure. Throughout his life, Crowley made a lasting impact in several areas, such as occultism, mysticism, poetry, and mountaineering. Born into a wealthy and devout Christian family, Crowley’s upbringing was deeply influenced by his parents’ strict religious beliefs. His father, Edward Crowley, was a successful brewer, and his mother, Emily Crowley, was a devout member of the Plymouth Brethren. This religious environment shaped Crowley’s early worldview.
Aleister Crowley attended Malvern College, where he showed early intellectual promise and a keen interest in chess, poetry, and mountaineering. His fascination with the occult also emerged during this period. Later, he studied at Trinity College, Cambridge, but left before completing his degree. Crowley’s academic pursuits took a backseat to his increasing fascination with mysticism and esoteric knowledge.
Embracing occultism, Crowley joined the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn in 1898. Yet, due to internal conflicts, he left and delved into different mystical traditions, including Thelema, his own spiritual philosophy. In 1904, he claimed to have received the Book of the Law, a foundational text for Thelemites, through a series of mystical experiences in Cairo, Egypt.
Crowley’s professional life was diverse, reflecting his multifaceted interests. He worked as a writer, poet, and mountaineer. His literary contributions ranged from poetry collections like “White Stains” to works on occultism, such as “Magick in Theory and Practice.” Crowley also wrote for various publications, showcasing his wit and provocative style.
Crowley’s adventurous spirit led him to pursue mountaineering, and he achieved notable feats, including attempts on K2 and Kanchenjunga, two of the world’s highest peaks. While his expeditions were not always successful, his mountaineering experiences added another layer to his complex persona.
Crowley’s life was marked by controversy. His provocative and unconventional lifestyle, including drug use and open sexuality, garnered public attention. The media named him the “Wickedest Man in the World,” and Crowley embraced his role as a cultural provocateur, defying societal norms and religious conventions.
Crowley’s influence extends beyond his death. Despite the controversies surrounding his life, his contributions to occultism and mysticism have left a lasting impact. Thelema, the religious and philosophical system he founded, continues to attract followers, and Crowley’s writings remain influential in esoteric circles. His legacy is a complex tapestry of rebellion, mysticism, and intellectual exploration.
Aleister Crowley’s life was a fascinating journey through the realms of the occult, literature, and adventure. From his early years in a devout Christian household to his later years as a controversial and enigmatic figure, Crowley’s legacy is one of complexity and enduring influence in the realms of mysticism and esotericism.
Aleister Crowley
Aleister Crowley
Male
Heroin addiction
Royal Leamington Spa, Warwickshire, England
Hastings, East Sussex, England
In addition to his pursuits in the occult, Crowley was a skilled chess player. He even competed in chess tournaments during his time at Cambridge University.
Aleister Crowley often referred to himself as “The Great Beast 666,” embracing the controversial and provocative persona that contributed to his notoriety.
Crowley faced legal issues during his lifetime. In 1923, he was expelled from Italy due to accusations of practicing black magic and immoral behavior.
Crowley made notable contributions to ritual magick, introducing new practices and refinements to existing ceremonial techniques.
Crowley’s most significant contribution lies in the development and propagation of Thelema, a spiritual philosophy and religious system.
An accomplished mountaineer, Crowley embarked on several expeditions, attempting to climb some of the world’s highest peaks.