H.P. Lovecraft created an original mythology that has not only become science fiction and fantasy classics, but also determined horror genre development in general. In his literary works, Lovecraft used images derived from both ancient religious traditions and contemporary western esotericism, filling his imaginary worlds with mysterious cosmic creatures. The writer’s cultural and historic environment played a very important role as the cultural landscape of New England and theosophical concepts widespread at that time had a great impact on the author’s work and writing. The original “mythology” invented by Lovecraft later played a key role in development of some new religious movements. Besides, Lovecraft’s mythology and images are reflected in the modern popular culture. The paper analyzes Lovecraft’s works and religious motives that are used or reflected in them, cultural factors that influenced the writer and Lovecraft’s heritage place in occult concepts, practices and subcultures of today.
Keywords: Lovecraft, fantasy, religion, popular culture, New Age, esoteric, occultism
DOI: 10.22250/2072-8662.2019.1.137-142
About the author
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Denis D. Pyzikov – 2st Master’s degree student, Department of Philosophy of Religion and Religious Studies, Saint Petersburg State University; 5, Mendeleev's line, Saint Petersburg, Russia, 199034; This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
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