While this book is intended as an introduction to traditionalism as a whole, it focuses on the work of FrithjofSchuon whose oeuvre constitutes the most accomplished and inclusive expression of the expression of the traditionalist outlook. Frequent reference will, however, be made to the writings of all the major traditionalists, especially those of Guenon and Coomaraswamy. The main part of this book is more interested in ideas than in personalities, but some account of the lives of the foremost figures is given in the opening chapters. The first chapter offers some remarks to the traditionalist attitude to biography. The reasons why this has been chosen as a starting point will be plain enough in the reading.