Eranos

This book highlights the influential thinkers who participated in the Eranos Meetings, exploring their ideas and the impact of these intellectual exchanges.

The book Eranos offers an insightful collection of portraits featuring some of the most influential thinkers of the twentieth century, all of whom participated in the Eranos gatherings. Notable figures such as Carl Jung, Joseph Campbell, and Mircea Eliade are among those whose ideas and philosophies are explored in depth. These meetings, held annually since 1933 on the picturesque shores of Lake Maggiore, served as a vital forum for intellectual exchange, focusing on the intersections of philosophy, history, art, and science, especially in relation to the mystical and symbolic aspects of religion.

Eranos delves into the critical appraisals of these scholars, examining how their interactions at the Eranos Meetings shaped their thoughts and contributions to contemporary discourse. The book highlights the significance of these gatherings, named after the Greek term for a banquet where guests contribute food, as one of the most important intellectual events of the century. The author meticulously analyzes how the rich tapestry of ideas presented by figures like Walter Otto, Paul Tillich, and D.T. Suzuki fostered a unique environment for philosophical exploration.

Additionally, the volume addresses the complex relationship between these esoteric thinkers and their attraction to authoritarian politics. By presenting a nuanced understanding of their ideologies, Eranos invites readers to reflect on the broader implications of their work and the enduring legacy of the Eranos Meetings in shaping modern thought.