Aliester Crowley

The topic of the Occult can be a problematic one as it is incredibly diverse in itself covering a wide range of subjects from ceremonial magic to ghosts. There is such a wealth of knowledge on the subject that it can be very easy to become overwhelmed by the volume of information.

To begin with I would like to take some time to look at the work of a specific individual. One of the more influential people in modern occultism would certainly be Aleister Crowley. Known to some as the wickedest man on earth or the Beast 666 he certainly has made an impression.

He was born on October 12th 1875 and shook the world until his death on December 1st 1947. He authored a great many books on his views of magic and the occult and was involved in many occult organizations. One of his greater known works is The Book of the Law where the famous phrase “Do what though wilt” can be seen.

He was heavily involved with the Golden Dawn in his earlier life, as well as the Ordo Templi Orientis or the O.T.O. and it is suggested his work influenced Gerald Gardner the father of modern Wicca. He also created or at least recreated the practice of Thelma being centered around his work The Book of the Law.

There is much information and myth surrounding this figure, but there any many good sources available to read as well as view. Many novels have been written regarding him and a few documentaries have been created as well.

One interesting documentary, Aleister Crowley: The Other Loch Ness Monster revolves around his temporary residence of the Boleskin House on the shores of Loch Ness. Though perhaps a bit biased it is an interesting watch.



One can’t help but wonder what echoes of the past could remain there. It is still a private home and has since passed into the hands of another family. No reports or interesting news has really developed regarding the location since then and the family residing there mostly wants to be left in peace regarding the subject of the previous tenant.