Rites and Symbols of Initiation

In this work, Eliade explores the general approaches to initiation found among archaic cultures and how these have survived or not in historical traditions. While the work can in no way claim to be complete, it is a classic in its field, like so much of Eliade's work. Eliade utilizes a comparative methodology in looking for universal or nearly universal patterns in comparative religion. Here he looks at archaic initiation ceremonies in the Americas, Australia, and Africa, and compares these with India, Christianity, and historical Greece. The general parallels in symbolism and patter that he shows are quite meaningful and can help people understand related topics. Highly recommended for anyone studying this topic.

Anyone planning a initiation into manhood (or woman hood) or rite of passage should know about this book. It is number one most referenced source of information on initiation in traditional cultures. No one can say they understand the legacy of initiation in primative or traditional cultures without reading this book.Although it is a academic quality work it is very readable. The layman should have no problem understanding it. My only complaint about this book is that I wish it were longer.