num_pages: 292
description: CONTENTSIntroductorySolar Myths and Christian FestivalsThe Symbolism of the ZodiacTotem-Sacraments and EucharistsFood and Vegetation MagicMagicians, Kings and GodsRites of Expiation and RedemptionPagan Initiations and the Second BirthMyth of the Golden AgeThe Saviour-God and the Virgin-MotherRitual DancingThe Sex-TabooThe Genesis of ChristianityThe Meaning of it AllThe Ancient MysteriesThe Exodus of ChristianityConclusionAppendix on the Teachings of the UpanishadsI RestII. The Nature of the SelfIndexEdward Carpenter (1844-1929) had a Cambridge education, and then joined the church as a curate. He left the church in 1874 and came a lecturer in astronomy. He was born into a wealthy family, but he eschewed the trappings of wealth because he believed that the first step toward Utopia, or the "New Life," was the elimination of the class hierarchy.
title: Pagan and Christian Creeds: Their Origin and Meaning