Eurythmy Forms for the Calendar of the Soul

These eurythmy forms and indications (CW A 23/2), published here for the first time in English, were given by Rudolf Steiner for the weekly verses of The Calendar of the Soul. The wealth of forms and metamorphoses in the cycle of the year is study material for all students of eurythmy. The forms can also be stimulating for those who are not practicing eurythmists but are interested in deepening their relationship with the calendar's verses and the cycle of the year.

The forms and indications illumine many aspects of the verses that are otherwise hidden. Through the changing number of performers, the forms acquire their unique character. The white dresses, which are worn for all fifty-two verses, are enlivened through the changing colors of the veils. Whether a specific color is in the middle of the form or at the periphery, whether the color belongs to a large or a small form, and so on--all of these aspects create a differentiated play of forces that offers refreshment for the soul. Over the years, the forms have been frequently traced and copied by eurythmists. This has resulted in distortions of the original and inaccuracies. A faithful reproduction of the original forms is therefore necessary. In many instances, the verse is written on the same page as the form, and the form and text create a whole.

In this English edition, a translation of the indications for the forms (written by Rudolf Steiner directly on the forms themselves) has been provided by Dorothea Mier. This allows the reader not only to engage with the forms themselves but also with the specific movement indications for each verse. Rudolf Steiner's lighting and costume indications for the verses are also included, along with the classic English translation of The Calendar of the Soul by Ruth and Hans Pusch.