Evolution of Rudolf Steiner’s ‘Agriculture Course’ from 1924 to 1929

Summary in the original language of the document

The 2nd edition (1929) was arguably the most influential edition of Rudolf Steiner’s ‘Agriculture Course’. It was issued to members of the Experimental Circle of Anthroposophical Farmers and Gardeners under a non disclosure agreement (NDA). It appears that the original print run of the 2nd edition was not exhausted until c. 1948. This presentation is a preliminary report and the first public disclosure of a singular document. These notes of Guenther Wachsmuth (1893-1963), the editor of the ‘Agriculture Course’, have recently been discovered. Bound into a single volume are the editor’s copyedits (c. 310; including insertions, deletions & substitutions) of the 1st edition, fresh material for the 2nd edition including handwritten front matter (n=8 pp, ss), handwritten end matter (n=20 pp, ss), original drawings in colour (n=8 pp, ss), and typed index for the 2nd edition (n=20 pp, ds). This bespoke ‘1.5’ edition of the ‘Agriculture Course’ (between the first undated edition, circa 1926, and the 2nd edition, dated 1929) reveals Wachsmuth’s intentions for the second edition of the ‘Agriculture Course’. Some of his intentions for the 2nd edition were realised and others were not. Sections on Astronomy, BD preparations, and a BD calendar failed to appear in the 2nd edition. A facsimile edition of the 1.5 edition is under consideration.
Comment: For serious scholars of the ‘Agriculture Course’ & Rudolf Steiner.