John Dee (13 July 1527 – 1608 or 1609) was an enigmatic figure whose expertise spanned mathematics, astronomy, pedagogy, astrology, the occult, and alchemy. Serving as the court astronomer and an advisor to Queen Elizabeth I, Dee dedicated significant portions of his life to studying alchemy, divination, and Hermetic philosophy.

The world of traditional Western Ceremonial Magick enjoyed a renaissance during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Groups like the Theosophical Society, the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn, Ordo Templi Orientis, and the Builders of the Adytum sought to bridge esoteric philosophy with practical spiritual work.

Here is a brief overview of a few major characters from this period of time.