The First German Philosopher: The Mysticism of Jakob Bhme as Interpreted by Heg [Paperback]

This book investigates Hegels interpretation of the mystical philosophy of Jakob B?hme (1575-1624), considered in the context of the reception of B?hme in the 18th and 19th centuries, and of Hegels own understanding of mysticism as a philosophical approach. The three sections of this book present: the historical background of Hegels encounter with B?hmes writings; the development of two different conceptions of mysticism in Hegels work; and finally Hegels approach to B?hmes philosophy, discussing in detail the references to B?hme both in published writings and manuscripts. According to Hegel, B?hme is the first German philosopher. The reason for placing B?hme at the very beginning of German philosophy is that Hegel considers him to be a profound thinker, despite his rudimentary education. Hegels fascination with B?hme mainly concerns the mystics understanding of the symbiotic relation between God and his opposite, the Devil: he considers this to be the true speculative core of B?hmes thought. By interpreting B?hme, Hegel intends to free the speculative content of his thought from the limitations of the inadequate, barbarous form in which the mystic expressed it, and also to liberate B?hme from the prejudices surrounding his writings, placing him firmly in the territory of philosophy and detaching him from the obscurity of esotericism. Combining historical reconstructions and philosophical argumentation, this book guides the reader through an important phase in German philosophy, and ultimately into an inquiry about the relationship between mysticism and philosophy itself.

1. The Reception of B?hmes Philosophy around 800.- 2. Two Different Conceptions of Mysticism in Hegels Writings.- 3. Hegel as Interpreter of B?hme.- Conclusion, or How to Liberate B?hmes Philosophy.Cecilia Muratoris book is a major contribution to scholarship on the Romantic Age and idealistic philosophy. & The book is clearlÃ<