Who was George Robert Stow Mead?

George Robert Stow Mead (1863–1933) was an English historian, writer, editor, and translator. He was a prominent member of the Theosophical Society and the founder of the Quest Society. His scholarly work focused on religious and philosophical traditions, including Neoplatonism, Hermeticism, and Gnosticism.

When and where was G. R. S. Mead born and when did he die?

G. R. S. Mead was born on March 22, 1863, in Peckham, Surrey, England, and he passed away on September 28, 1933, in London.

What were the primary fields of study for G. R. S. Mead?

G. R. S. Mead's works primarily dealt with various religious and philosophical texts and traditions. Specifically, his studies encompassed Neoplatonism, Hermeticism, and Gnosticism.

What was the significance of the image accompanying the article about G. R. S. Mead?

The image provided is a portrait of G. R. S. Mead, identified as George Robert Stow Mead.

What was G. R. S. Mead's family background?

G. R. S. Mead was the son of Colonel Robert Mead of the British Army and his wife Mary (née Stow). His mother had received a traditional education at Rochester Cathedral School.

Where did G. R. S. Mead pursue his higher education, and what did he study?

G. R. S. Mead pursued his higher education at St John's College, Cambridge. He initially began studying mathematics but later shifted his focus to the study of Classics, gaining proficiency in Greek and Latin.

What degrees did G. R. R. S. Mead obtain from Cambridge University?

G. R. S. Mead completed a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree in 1884. He later received a Master of Arts (MA) degree in 1926.

How did G. R. S. Mead first become interested in Theosophy?

G. R. S. Mead's initial interest in Theosophy was sparked when he read Alfred Percy Sinnett's book *Esoteric Buddhism* in 1883, while he was still a student at Cambridge University. Theosophy is a spiritual movement that seeks to understand the underlying principles of all religions and philosophies.

When did G. R. S. Mead join the Theosophical Society, and what role did he take on later?

G. R. S. Mead joined the Theosophical Society in 1884. He later became Helena Petrovna Blavatsky's private secretary in 1889.

What significant positions did G. R. S. Mead hold within the Theosophical Society?

Within the Theosophical Society, G. R. S. Mead was elected as the general secretary of its Esoteric Section, jointly with Bertram Keightley. He was also chosen as one of the twelve members of its Inner Group.

How did G. R. S. Mead meet his wife?

G. R. S. Mead met Laura Mary Cooper, who later became his wife, within the Inner Group of the Theosophical Society.

What was G. R. S. Mead's role in Theosophical publications?

G. R. S. Mead served as the last editor of the Theosophical magazine *Lucifer*, alongside Annie Besant. After its renaming to *The Theosophical Review* in 1897, he continued as its sole editor from 1907 until 1909.

Why did G. R. S. Mead resign from the Theosophical Society in 1909?

G. R. S. Mead resigned from the Theosophical Society in February 1909, along with approximately 700 other members. This action was primarily a protest against Annie Besant's decision to reinstate Charles Webster Leadbeater into the society.

What were the allegations against Charles Webster Leadbeater that led to the controversy?

Charles Webster Leadbeater had been accused in 1906 of teaching masturbation and engaging in sexual touching with the sons of some American Theosophists, allegedly under the guise of occult training. This led to his initial expulsion from the society.

Besides the Leadbeater controversy, what other factors contributed to G. R. S. Mead's departure from the Theosophical Society?

While the reinstatement of C. W. Leadbeater was the immediate cause for his resignation, G. R. S. Mead's long-standing frustration with the dogmatism of the Theosophical Society also played a significant role in his decision to leave after 25 years of involvement.

What organization did G. R. S. Mead found after leaving the Theosophical Society?

In March 1909, G. R. S. Mead founded the Quest Society.

What were the main activities of the Quest Society?

The Quest Society presented lectures at the old Kensington Town Hall in central London. Its most significant effort, however, was the publication of *The Quest: A Quarterly Review*, which ran from 1909 to 1931 and featured contributions from many notable individuals.

Which prominent literary and philosophical figures were influenced by G. R. S. Mead?

G. R. S. Mead's work influenced notable figures such as Ezra Pound, W. B. Yeats, Hermann Hesse, Kenneth Rexroth, and Robert Duncan. These individuals were part of various artistic and literary movements, suggesting Mead's impact extended across different creative fields.

What connection has been suggested between G. R. S. Mead and Carl Gustav Jung?

Gilles Quispel, a scholar of Gnosticism and a friend of Carl Gustav Jung, suggested that G. R. S. Mead had an influence on Jung's work. This connection has been further explored by various scholars, indicating Mead's potential impact on depth psychology.

What was G. R. S. Mead's contribution to the study of Gnosticism in English?

G. R. S. Mead was the first individual to provide an English translation of the Gnostic text *Pistis Sophia*. This translation was crucial in popularizing the concept of "Gnosis" as a vital aspect of ancient Gnosticism and as a broader concept across different religions and historical periods.

Name one of G. R. S. Mead's significant translations or original works related to ancient philosophy.

One of G. R. S. Mead's significant works was his English translation of *Pistis Sophia: The Book of the Saviour*, published in 1896 and revised in 1921. He also translated *Select Works of Plotinus* in 1896 and published *Thrice Greatest Hermes: Studies in Hellenistic Theosophy and Gnosis* in 1906.

What was the title of the magazine G. R. S. Mead edited that later became *The Theosophical Review*?

The magazine that G. R. S. Mead co-edited with Annie Besant and later solely edited was initially titled *Lucifer*. It was renamed *The Theosophical Review* in 1897.

What was the duration of the publication of *The Quest: A Quarterly Review*?

*The Quest: A Quarterly Review*, published by the Quest Society founded by G. R. S. Mead, ran from 1909 to 1931. This publication served as a platform for intellectual discourse on religion, philosophy, and science.

What is *Pistis Sophia*?

*Pistis Sophia* is an important Gnostic text, and G. R. S. Mead was the first person to translate it into English, significantly contributing to its accessibility and study. Gnostic texts often explore themes of spiritual knowledge and the nature of the divine.

What is Hermeticism, a field Mead studied?

Hermeticism is a religious, philosophical, and esoteric tradition based on writings attributed to Hermes Trismegistus. G. R. S. Mead extensively studied and translated texts related to this tradition, such as *Thrice Greatest Hermes*, exploring its connections to ancient wisdom.

What is Neoplatonism, another area of Mead's study?

Neoplatonism is a school of philosophy that emerged in the Roman Empire, based on the teachings of Plato. G. R. S. Mead's work included translations and studies of Neoplatonic texts, such as those by Plotinus, contributing to the understanding of this influential philosophical system.

What was the stated purpose of G. R. S. Mead's founding of the Quest Society?

G. R. S. Mead founded the Quest Society with the intention of creating an organization that offered an undogmatic approach to the comparative study and investigation of religion, philosophy, and science. This aimed to foster open inquiry without adherence to a specific creed.

How many members were part of the initial resignation from the Theosophical Society led by G. R. S. Mead?

Approximately 700 members of the British Section of the Theosophical Society resigned along with G. R. S. Mead in February 1909. This significant number highlights the impact of the controversy and Mead's influence.

What is the significance of G. R. S. Mead's work *Fragments of a Faith Forgotten*?

*Fragments of a Faith Forgotten*, published by G. R. S. Mead in 1900, is a notable work that explored early Christian and Gnostic traditions, contributing to the understanding of esoteric movements. It provided insights into the historical development of mystical beliefs.

What was the title of the collection of essays Mead published in 1895, later revised?

The collection of essays Mead published in 1895 was titled *The Word-Mystery: Four Essays*. It was later revised and republished as *The Word-Mystery: Four Comparative Studies in General Theosophy* in 1907.

Besides his own writings, what kind of texts did G. R. S. Mead translate and study?

G. R. S. Mead focused on translating and studying ancient religious and philosophical texts, particularly those related to Hermeticism, Gnosticism, and Neoplatonism. Examples include *Pistis Sophia*, works by Plotinus, and the *Corpus Hermeticum*, making these ancient sources more accessible.

What does the term "Gnosis" refer to in the context of G. R. S. Mead's work?

In the context of G. R. S. Mead's work, "Gnosis" refers to a form of spiritual or mystical knowledge, often considered salvific in Gnostic traditions. His translation of *Pistis Sophia* and his writings helped popularize this concept as a key element in understanding ancient esoteric thought.

What was the relationship between G. R. S. Mead and Helena Blavatsky?

G. R. S. Mead became Helena Blavatsky's private secretary in 1889, indicating a close working relationship and involvement in her Theosophical activities. Blavatsky was a key figure in the founding of the Theosophical Society.

What was the name of the publication associated with the Quest Society?

The Quest Society published *The Quest: A Quarterly Review*, which ran from 1909 to 1931. This journal served as a significant platform for disseminating scholarly articles on religion, philosophy, and mysticism.

What specific accusation led to Charles Webster Leadbeater's initial expulsion from the Theosophical Society?

Charles Webster Leadbeater was accused of teaching masturbation and sexually touching the sons of American Theosophists under the guise of occult training, which led to his initial expulsion in 1906. This incident was a major point of contention within the society.

What is the significance of the *Corpus Hermeticum* in relation to G. R. S. Mead's work?

G. R. S. Mead published *The Corpus Hermeticum* in 1905, making these foundational texts of Hermetic philosophy and mysticism accessible to a wider audience. This work is central to understanding Hermeticism, a key area of Mead's research.

What specific aspect of Gnosticism did G. R. S. Mead help popularize?

G. R. S. Mead was instrumental in popularizing the notion of "Gnosis" itself, emphasizing its importance as a core concept within ancient Gnosticism and as a significant element in various religious traditions across different times and cultures. Gnosis generally refers to a special kind of knowledge or insight.

What is the significance of G. R. S. Mead's work *Orpheus*?

*Orpheus*, published by G. R. S. Mead in 1896, is one of his notable works that delves into ancient religious and mystical traditions. It likely explores themes related to the mythical figure Orpheus and the Orphic mysteries, which were significant in ancient Greek religion.

What was the title of the 11-part series published by G. R. S. Mead related to Gnosis?

The 11-part series published by G. R. S. Mead was titled *Echoes from the Gnosis*. It included works like *The Gnosis of the Mind*, *The Hymns of Hermes*, and *The Gnostic Crucifixion*, making various Gnostic texts and ideas accessible.

What is the primary focus of the book *Thrice Greatest Hermes* by G. R. S. Mead?

*Thrice Greatest Hermes: Studies in Hellenistic Theosophy and Gnosis* by G. R. S. Mead focuses on the study of Hellenistic theosophy and Gnosticism. It likely involves translations and interpretations of texts related to Hermes Trismegistus.

What is the meaning of "Hellenistic Theosophy" as a field of study?

Hellenistic Theosophy refers to the spiritual and philosophical traditions that emerged during the Hellenistic period (roughly 323 BCE to 31 BCE), blending Greek philosophy with Eastern religious ideas. These traditions often focused on divine wisdom and mystical knowledge, which was a key area of Mead's research.

What was the role of G. R. S. Mead in the translation and dissemination of Gnostic texts?

G. R. S. Mead played a pioneering role by providing the first English translation of *Pistis Sophia*. His translations and commentaries, such as *Thrice Greatest Hermes*, were instrumental in making Gnostic and Hermetic literature accessible and popularizing the concept of Gnosis.

What was the relationship between G. R. S. Mead and Annie Besant?

G. R. S. Mead worked closely with Annie Besant as a co-editor of *Lucifer* and later *The Theosophical Review*. However, he eventually resigned from the Theosophical Society in protest of Besant's decision to reinstate C. W. Leadbeater, indicating a significant professional and personal divergence.

What is the significance of the "Authority control" section at the end of the article?

The "Authority control" section provides links to various international and national library and archival databases that catalog information about G. R. S. Mead. This helps researchers find consistent biographical and bibliographical data across different systems, ensuring accuracy and completeness of information.

What specific work by G. R. S. Mead explored the question of Jesus's historical timeline?

G. R. S. Mead explored the question of Jesus's historical timeline in his book *Did Jesus Live 100 BC?*, published by the Theosophical Publishing Society in 1903. This work challenged conventional dating and suggested alternative historical contexts for Jesus's life.

What is the general nature of the works listed under "See also"?

The "See also" section lists various related esoteric and religious concepts, texts, and figures, such as Poemandres, Pistis Sophia, Hermetica, Mandaeanism, and Marcionism. These entries reflect the intellectual milieu and the broader scope of G. R. S. Mead's research interests in ancient mysticism and Gnosticism.

What was the title of the collection of Mead's writings published posthumously in 2016?

In 2016, a collection titled *G.R.S. Mead: Essays and Commentaries*, edited by S.N. Parsons, was published by Adeptis Press. This posthumous collection makes his essays and commentaries available to contemporary readers.

What role did G. R. S. Mead play in making the works of Plotinus accessible?

G. R. S. Mead translated *Select Works of Plotinus* into English, publishing them in 1896. Plotinus was a highly influential Neoplatonic philosopher, and Mead's translation helped introduce his complex philosophical ideas to a wider English-speaking audience.

G. R. S. Mead Wiki: G.R.S. Mead: A Scholar's Journey Through Esoteric Traditions

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Overview

Birth and Early Life

George Robert Stow Mead was born in Peckham, London, on March 22, 1863. His father, Colonel Robert Mead of the British Army, and his mother, Mary (née Stow), provided him with a traditional education, reflecting his mother's own scholarly background at Rochester Cathedral School.

Academic Foundations

Mead pursued higher education at St John's College, Cambridge. Initially focusing on mathematics, he later shifted his academic pursuits to the Classics, developing a strong command of Greek and Latin. He completed his Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree in 1884 and was awarded a Master of Arts (MA) in 1926.

Seeds of Esoteric Interest

During his time at Cambridge, Mead encountered Alfred Percy Sinnett's influential work, Esoteric Buddhism (1883). This text is presumed to have ignited his interest in Theosophy, leading him to join Helena Blavatsky's Theosophical Society in 1884, marking the beginning of his deep engagement with esoteric thought.

The Theosophical Society Years

Blavatsky's Secretary and Inner Circle

Mead's dedication led him to become Helena Blavatsky's private secretary in 1889. He was subsequently elected as a joint general secretary of the Esoteric Section of the Theosophical Society and became a member of its Inner Group. It was within this group that he met Laura Mary Cooper, who would later become his wife.

Editorial Leadership

Mead played a significant role in Theosophical publications. Alongside Annie Besant, he served as the final editor of the magazine Lucifer. Following its renaming to The Theosophical Review, Mead continued as its sole editor from 1897 until 1909, when the publication ceased due to his departure from the Society.

Departure from the Society

In February 1909, Mead, along with approximately 700 members, resigned from the Theosophical Society. This action was primarily a protest against Annie Besant's decision to reinstate C. W. Leadbeater, who had faced accusations regarding his conduct. Mead's resignation also reflected a growing frustration with the perceived dogmatism within the Society after 25 years of involvement.

The Quest Society

Founding Principles

In March 1909, Mead established the Quest Society, drawing 150 former Theosophical Society members and 100 new adherents. The society was conceived as an undogmatic platform for the comparative study and investigation of religion, philosophy, and science, fostering intellectual exploration beyond rigid doctrines.

Intellectual Discourse

The Quest Society became a significant forum for intellectual exchange. It hosted lectures at the historic Kensington Town Hall in central London, attracting scholars and thinkers interested in esoteric and philosophical subjects. This provided a vital space for dialogue and the dissemination of ideas.

The Quest Quarterly

A cornerstone of the Quest Society's work was its publication, The Quest: A Quarterly Review, which ran from 1909 to 1931. This journal featured contributions from many historically significant figures, solidifying the society's reputation as a center for serious inquiry into spiritual and philosophical traditions.

Scholarly Pursuits

Neoplatonism and Hermeticism

Mead dedicated significant scholarly effort to the study and translation of foundational texts within Neoplatonism and Hermeticism. His work provided accessible English versions of complex philosophical and mystical traditions, making them available to a wider academic and esoteric audience.

Gnosticism and Gnosis

A pivotal contribution of Mead was his pioneering work on Gnosticism. His translation of the Pistis Sophia was the first in English, playing a crucial role in popularizing the concept of "Gnosis" as a central element of ancient Gnosticism and a recurring theme in religious thought across cultures and epochs.

Comparative Religious Inquiry

Mead's academic approach was inherently comparative. He sought to identify common threads and underlying principles across diverse religious and philosophical systems, including ancient Greek mysteries, early Christianity, and Eastern traditions. This holistic perspective informed his extensive writings and translations.

Notable Works

Foundational Translations

Mead's translations are central to his legacy. Key works include:

Select Works of Plotinus (1896)
Pistis Sophia: The Book of the Saviour (1896, revised 1921)
The Corpus Hermeticum (1905)
Thrice Greatest Hermes: Studies in Hellenistic Theosophy and Gnosis (1906)

Explorations of Esoteric Traditions

His original writings and compilations delve into various esoteric subjects:

Simon Magus (1892)
Orpheus (1896)
Fragments of a Faith Forgotten (1900)
Did Jesus Live 100 BC? (1903)
Some Mystical Adventures (1910)
Quests Old and New (1913)
Doctrine of the Subtle Body in Western Tradition (1919)
Gnostic John the Baptizer: Selections from the Mandæan John-Book (1924)

This extensive 11-part series (1906-1907) explored various Gnostic and Hermetic texts, including:

The Gnosis of the Mind
The Hymns of Hermes
The Vision of Aridaeus
The Hymn of Jesus
The Mysteries of Mithra
A Mithraic Ritual
The Gnostic Crucifixion
The Chaldean Oracles (Vols. 1 & 2)
The Hymn of the Robe of Glory
The Wedding Song of Wisdom

Influence and Legacy

Literary and Artistic Circles

Mead's scholarship resonated deeply within literary and artistic communities. Notable figures such as Ezra Pound, W. B. Yeats, Hermann Hesse, Kenneth Rexroth, and Robert Duncan were influenced by his work, integrating his explorations of ancient wisdom into their own creative output.

Psychological Connections

The profound impact of Mead's work on the development of psychological thought has been noted. Scholar Gilles Quispel suggested a significant influence on Carl Gustav Jung, particularly concerning Jung's engagement with Gnosticism. This connection highlights Mead's role in bridging esoteric traditions with modern psychological inquiry.

Scholarly Foundation

As one of the first scholars to provide comprehensive English translations and analyses of key Gnostic and Hermetic texts, Mead laid crucial groundwork for subsequent academic study in these fields. His emphasis on "Gnosis" helped define a critical area of research in comparative religion and ancient philosophy.

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References

A full list of references for this article are available at the G. R. S. Mead Wikipedia page

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Important Notice

This page has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is derived from publicly available data and aims to provide a comprehensive overview of G. R. S. Mead's life and work. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy and adherence to the source material, the information may not be exhaustive or entirely up-to-date.

This is not a definitive academic treatise. The information provided should not be considered a substitute for rigorous scholarly research or primary source analysis. Readers are encouraged to consult original texts and academic studies for deeper understanding. The creators of this page are not responsible for any interpretations or actions taken based on the information presented herein.

G.R.S. Mead: A Scholar's Journey Through Esoteric Traditions

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Overview 🎓

🇬🇧 Birth and Early Life

🏛️ Academic Foundations

📜 Seeds of Esoteric Interest

The Theosophical Society Years 🌟

✍️ Blavatsky's Secretary and Inner Circle

📰 Editorial Leadership

🚪 Departure from the Society

The Quest Society 🧭

💡 Founding Principles

🗣️ Intellectual Discourse

📖 The Quest Quarterly

Scholarly Pursuits 🐍

🏛️ Neoplatonism and Hermeticism

✨ Gnosticism and Gnosis

⚖️ Comparative Religious Inquiry

Notable Works 📚

📜 Foundational Translations

🔍 Explorations of Esoteric Traditions

Influence and Legacy 🔗

✒️ Literary and Artistic Circles

🧠 Psychological Connections

🌍 Scholarly Foundation

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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References

📜 References

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Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Overview

Birth and Early Life

Academic Foundations

Seeds of Esoteric Interest

The Theosophical Society Years

Blavatsky's Secretary and Inner Circle

Editorial Leadership

Departure from the Society

The Quest Society

Founding Principles

Intellectual Discourse

The Quest Quarterly

Scholarly Pursuits

Neoplatonism and Hermeticism

Gnosticism and Gnosis

Comparative Religious Inquiry

Notable Works

Foundational Translations

Explorations of Esoteric Traditions

Influence and Legacy

Literary and Artistic Circles

Psychological Connections

Scholarly Foundation

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice