The prophet of a new age : the influence of theosophy on W. B. Yeats and his aestheticism

Abstract

This thesis draws a correlation between Yeats’ theosophical beliefs and his poetic creativity. W. B. Yeats designed an intricate system of Spiritualism, using imagery of transforming vortices and gyres to construct and map out the reincarnation and development of the soul. This thesis is devoted to understanding Theosophy’s influence on Yeats’ poetry, particularly his dedication by language arts to the occult. This thesis aims to contribute to the scholarship by offering, through a Theosophical-Esoteric lens, a new perspective to read Yeats’ poetry. Spiritualism has significant bearings upon the development of Yeats’ thoughts and attitudes, and it informs the innate characteristics of his poetry. Ultimately, this thesis is concerned with exploring Gnosis in all the arts.