Annie Besant

The role of Annie Besant, second president of the Theosophical Society of Adyar, looms large. While we think Annie Besant errer considerably and misdirected the Theosophical movement in her later years, introducing what we would call - Besantism, her early work was in line with the Theosophy of Blavatsky. She was known for her brilliance, for her oratorial skill and her capacity to inspire others. In appreciation of these special qualities we have placed online this online book donated by Derek Davis. His summary words are:

However, far beyond the specific doctrines outlined, Besant comes across as a towering, exuberant, near-ecstatic presence. It would be impossible to doubt her honesty, her dedication to humanity--the poor, the social underdog--and her almost messianic belief that self-sacrifice and adherence to the "right way" would lead to a golden age. Many of her lectures end on a note more like revival meeting than lecture, pulsing with holy optimism. These are her finest words and her greatest legacy.

Essays and Addresses Vol. III by Annie Besant - 1895 to 1906