Evelyn Underhill

Mysticism: A Study in the Nature and Development of Spiritual Consciousness (1911) is Evelyn Underhill's classic synthesis of the history, psychology, and theology of the mystical life. Moving from Plotinus and Dionysius to Eckhart, Ruysbroeck, Teresa, and John of the Cross, she frames the "mystic way" in five phases-Awakening, Purgation, Illumination, the Dark Night, and Union. Her lucid prose joins generous quotation to careful taxonomy, and distinguishes magic (will to power) from mysticism (surrender to Reality).
Composed amid Edwardian interest in comparative religion and the new psychology, it converses with William James while remaining anchored in Christian practice. An English lay theologian and retreat leader, Underhill united literary training with pastoral instinct. Mentored by Baron Friedrich von Hügel and steeped in continental scholarship, she countered occult enthusiasms by presenting mysticism as disciplined and ecclesial.
Later works-on Ruysbroeck and in Practical Mysticism-confirm her move toward mature Anglican devotion. This classic rewards scholars and seekers alike: historians will value its sources, theologians its union of doctrine and experience, psychologists its phenomenology, practitioners its sane counsel. If you would grasp how religious consciousness grows, suffers, and is transformed, Underhill is an indispensable guide. Quickie Classics summarizes timeless works with precision, preserving the author's voice and keeping the prose clear, fast, and readable-distilled, never diluted.
Enriched Edition extras: Introduction · Synopsis · Historical Context · Brief Analysis · 4 Reflection Q&As · Editorial Footnotes.