The Complete Idiot s Guide to Freemasonry, 2nd Edition: Discover the Rich and Fascinating History of This Mysterious Society

Freemasonry is an ancient secret society shrouded in obscurity. Fascination with the mysteries of the Masons reached a fevered pitch after the release of Dan Brown’s novels Angels and Demons, The Da Vinci Code, and The Lost Symbol. But these novels and their related movies raised more questions than they answered. 

The Complete Idiot’s Guide® to Freemasonry, S econd Edition, fills readers in on the truths behind the mysteries. In it, readers get:
- A fact-filled overview of the birth and beginnings of Freemasonry, including its relationship to the Knights Templar and Egypt.
- Fascinating facts about famous Masons.
- An explanation of the various Masonic organizations, such as the York and Scottish rites, and the Shriners.
- A behind-the-scenes look at what really goes on in a Masonic lodge, including initiations.
- A new walking tour of Washington, DC, pointing out the hidden Masonic symbols featured in The Lost Symbol.
- Scripts for Masonic rituals, giving a flavor of the language used in such ceremonies.
- A field guide to Masonic symbols and regalia, with photos and explanations of significance.
- The history behind Masonic philanthropic efforts and youth groups.
- A history of African-American Freemasonry and the role of women in Masonic organizations.

S. Brent Morris, PhD, is managing editor of the Scottish Rite Journal, the largest-circulation Masonic magazine in the world, and was the first American to be elected Worshipful Master of Quatuor Coronati Lodge No. 276, London, the premier Masonic research lodge. He is the author or coauthor of 11 books on Freemasonry, including Masonic Philanthropies, Cornerstones of Freedom, and Is It True What They Say About Freemasonry? (with Arturo de Hoyos).