Mystical Origins of the Tarot: From Ancient Roots to Modern Usage

Rating:
Summary: The definitive study of Tarot symbolism
Review: Where Paul Huson's 1972 work `The Devil's Picture Book' presented a rich melange of broad speculations regarding the emblems of Tarot, his new book `Mystical Origins of the Tarot' approaches the subject along entirely different and decidedly radical lines, challenging preconceptions and removing layers of fanciful superimposition which have hitherto obscured Tarot's roots. He subjects the images of traditional Tarot to a penetrating and rigorous process of historical analysis and thematic elucidation employing an approach which can best be described as `symbolic archaeology' - the results are quite remarkable. The research brought to bear on the origins of the enigmatic cards is impressive, thorough and original: for instance the four suits signs of the Minor Arcana are painstakingly traced via the surviving decks of Mamluk Egypt to the heraldic symbols denoting the Four Virtues and the four Mazdean castes of ancient Persia. An important paradigm-shift in understanding is achieved via the author firmly locating each of the figures of the Major Arcana in the beguiling world of popular religious dramas, mysteries and miracle-plays in the High Middle Ages - he even provides examples of their speeches from the original dramas. The chapter on the Major Arcana in this context is as illuminating as it is convincing.
Furthermore Paul Huson goes deeply into the traditions underpinning the cartomantic significance of each card, giving the divinatory rundown from Pratesi's Cartomancer of 1750 to A.E. Waite in 1910 along with his own suggested keywords for readings. One surprising turn-up for the books transpires when the author locates the direct source of the Golden Dawn Decanic system of the Minor Cards in the section on the 36 Decan images in Book II of the Arab grimoire called the Picatrix. The 16 legendary personages identified with the court cards likewise opens up fascinating points of symbolic comprehension.
The sections on practical cartomancy will be found invaluable by both beginners and seasoned users of the cards: a great deal of utile information and insight is imparted which will facilitate practise. I especially like the techniques for `linking' the cards.
The above gives but an indication of some of the absorbing contents of this inspiring book. In its own way the research it unfolds is as compelling to follow as a detective story as the author indefatigably tracks down the emblematic minutiae of Tarot symbolism to their archaic and mediaeval originals.
Ranging with great erudition from Shia, Sufi and Magian symbologies, to Neoplatonic doctrines, mediaeval mystery-plays, 18th century cartomancers and scholarly art history this packed study delivers such a veritable feast of fresh information and insight on the subject of Tarot that beginners and veteran tarotists alike will find it a real treat to read and an indispensable resource for reference. It is illustrated throughout with a wealth of examples of card-images, allegorical emblems and images skilfully executed by the author. This is very likely the definitive study on the subject. Highly recommended.

Rating:
Summary: Paul Huson has done it again!
Review: Mystical Origins of the Tarot is a wonderfully researched history of the Tarot. Mr. Huson gives the reader a fascinating look into this ancient science and for the novice it is a "must have" volume. Beautifully illustrated, the cards are presented and defined with colourful historical facts. The various"spreads" are explained with clarity and simple easy to follow directions. In my first attempt at a "layout" the divination which appeared made perfect sense to me. This is a very special gift for anyone interestd in the Tarot.

Rating:
Summary: Paul Huson has done it again!
Review: Mystical Origins of the Tarot is a wonderfully researched history of the Tarot. Mr. Huson gives the reader a fascinating look into this ancient science and for the novice it is a "must have" volume. Beautifully illustrated, the cards are presented and defined with colourful historical facts. The various"spreads" are explained with clarity and simple easy to follow directions. In my first attempt at a "layout" the divination which appeared made perfect sense to me. This is a very special gift for anyone interestd in the Tarot.