Household Gods by: Aleister Crowley (1912)

Household Gods by Aleister Crowley is a one-act dramatic play, first published in 1912, that explores themes of divine intervention, personal responsibility, and the illusion of religious authority. Written with Crowley’s signature wit and sharp critique of conventional morality, the play presents a dialogue between a Roman nobleman and household deities, challenging the nature of faith, superstition, and self-deception.

Interestingly, Household Gods carries striking similarities to what would later become the core themes of Beauty and the Beast... long before Disney put its spin on it. The play features talking objects, a setting steeped in mysticism, and a protagonist whose inner turmoil mirrors that of a cursed beast. Given that Crowley famously called himself "The Great Beast", it’s hard not to see an ironic reflection of his own persona in the story.

Beyond its theatrical charm, Household Gods serves as both a satire on religious orthodoxy and a meditation on personal will, making it a fascinating read for those interested in Crowley’s esoteric worldview, literary prowess, and the deeper symbolic layers of his work.