Das Kind und der Riese
Eine orphische Erzählung
Arthur Barfield war ein britischer Philosoph, dessen Werk sich primär mit der Evolution des Bewusstseins befasste. Als engagierter Dichter und Schriftsteller hinterließ er ein Erbe an Essays, Büchern und Versen. Barfield gilt als Schlüsselfigur der Anthroposophie im englischsprachigen Raum. Seine einzigartige Perspektive und intellektuelle Strenge beeinflussten maßgeblich Zeitgenossen wie C. S. Lewis und J. R. R. Tolkien.







Eine orphische Erzählung
Zur Geschichte des europäischen Denkens
Seit Jahrzehnten gilt das Werk des englischen Philosophen Owen Barfield als Geheimtipp; vor allem in den USA wird es inzwischen aber intensiv gelesen. Hier ist ein Denker, der wieder die Frage nach dem Sinn von Geschichte und Wissenschaft zu stellen wagt und der beide im größeren Rahmen der Evolution des menschlichen Geistes begreift. Mit Evolution – Der Weg des Bewusstseins liegt nun Barfields Hauptwerk vor, das in mancher Hinsicht dem Denken Ernst Cassirers, Rudolf Steiners und Jean Gebsers nahesteht. Es entwirft in subtiler Analyse die Bewusstseinsgeschichte des abendländischen Geistes von seinen griechisch-jüdischen Ursprüngen her bis in das Atomzeitalter. Dabei werden erstaunliche Einblicke möglich in die Entwicklung des Raum- und Zeitbewusstseins, des Verständnisses von Natur, Kosmos und Person.
Owen Barfield explores the evolution of consciousness through a profound analysis of mythology and poetics, influenced by figures like Coleridge and Steiner. His philosophy highlights the noetic role of poetry and its transformative impact on cultural history. As a member of the Oxford Inklings, Barfield's debut work, The Silver Trumpet, stands out as the first märchen published by the group, marking a significant contribution to fantasy literature.
Exploring themes of language, imagination, and the human experience, this collection of essays addresses the pervasive sense of fragmentation in contemporary society. Barfield offers insights and solutions that connect individuals to deeper meanings, bridging the gap between the self, society, and the divine. Through thoughtful analysis, the essays encourage readers to reflect on their understanding of existence and the interconnectedness of all things.
Set against the backdrop of English life between the World Wars, this epilogue weaves together elements of fairy tale, societal critique, romance, and apocalyptic vision. It explores the transformative and redemptive powers of love and imagination, offering a profound reflection on the human experience during a tumultuous period. Through its rich narrative, the book invites readers to contemplate the interplay between despair and hope in a changing world.
Focusing on a contemporary spiritual journey, the narrative delves into the transformative power of creative imagination. Through a series of explorations, Barfield addresses significant challenges faced in today's world, emphasizing the importance of imagination in navigating these issues.
Focusing on the evolution of human consciousness, this study explores the disparity between a speaker's intended meaning and the literal definitions of words. It delves into how language shapes our understanding and communication, revealing the complexities of meaning beyond mere vocabulary.
This collection showcases the significant works of a revered thinker, praised by C. S. Lewis as an exceptional mentor. It highlights the author's profound insights and wisdom, offering readers a chance to engage with key themes and ideas that have influenced many. The selection serves as a testament to the author's intellectual legacy, making it an essential read for those seeking to explore philosophical and theological concepts through the lens of a respected figure in literature.
The book features a compilation of essays and lectures that delve into the life and works of C. S. Lewis, exploring his contributions as an author, theologian, and literary scholar. Through Owen Barfield's insights, readers gain a deeper understanding of Lewis's philosophies and literary impact, highlighting the significance of his ideas in the context of literature and theology.