Summary
Highlights
Disillusioned, Crowley traveled extensively, studying Eastern philosophy and experimenting with various drugs. In Egypt, his wife, Rose, seemingly channeled the god Horus, leading to the revelation of 'The Book of the Law' in 1904. This text became the foundation of Thelema, a religion promoting hedonism and radical free will, encapsulated by the maxim 'Do what thou wilt.'
The speaker reflects on their own past embrace of nihilism, drawing parallels to Crowley's 'Do what thou wilt' philosophy. They recount a previous video they made about this philosophy and the personal journey that led them away from such a mindset and towards religion, emphasizing the dangers of unrestrained self-will.
The video opens by introducing Aleister Crowley, prominently featured on The Beatles' 'Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band' album cover. The speaker suggests that artists making deals with the devil for fame and success is a recurring theme, citing Crowley's influence. It touches upon the controversy surrounding Crowley's label as a Satanist and his founding of Thelema, an occult and spiritual philosophy.
Born in 1875 to a devout Plymouth Brethren family, Crowley had a strict Christian upbringing. After his father's death, he became a troubled teenager, questioning biblical inconsistencies and engaging in rebellious behavior like smoking, drinking, and visiting prostitutes. His mother nicknamed him 'the Beast' (from the Book of Revelation), a moniker he later embraced.
While at Cambridge, Crowley developed an interest in the occult, delving into mystical texts. He dropped out to pursue occultism, living off his inheritance. In 1898, he joined the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn, an organization focused on esoteric teachings and ritualistic drug use. His rebellious lifestyle led to feuds and his eventual departure from the order.
Believing himself to be an Egyptian prophet, Crowley founded Thelema and established the Abbey of Thelema in Sicily in 1920, intended as a utopian commune. However, the abbey quickly deteriorated due to unsanitary conditions and drug use. A mysterious death there led to negative press, with Crowley being dubbed 'the wickedest man in the world.' The commune eventually collapsed.
Disgraced and impoverished, Crowley returned to England, continued writing, and offered magic tuition. He died in 1947. The video highlights his enduring legacy, particularly his influence on pagan practices like Wicca and his continued importance in occult literature. It also discusses his significant impact on music, with his image on The Beatles' album and his words appearing in songs by artists like David Bowie, Ozzy Osbourne, and Iron Maiden. The speaker emphasizes the concept of artists making deals for talent, referencing musicians like Robert Johnson.
The video concludes by summarizing Crowley's character as unlikable and discussing potential mental health issues exacerbated by addiction. It poses questions about whether he was a genius, insane, a visionary, or a fraud, acknowledging his complex and undeniable impact on history, reminding viewers to be vigilant against such dark influences.