Arcane Schools by John Yarker is a book that explores the history and philosophy of the Western Mystery Tradition. Yarker, a Freemason and occultist, argues that the Arcane Schools are a continuous tradition that can be traced back to the ancient world. He examines the symbolism and rituals of these schools, and discusses their relationship to Freemasonry, Rosicrucianism, and other esoteric movements.The book is divided into three parts. The first part, "The Origin and Antiquity of the Arcane Schools," discusses the history of the tradition from its origins in ancient Egypt to its development in the Middle Ages. Yarker argues that the Arcane Schools were originally founded by a race of Aryans, or "Nobles," who possessed a superior knowledge of the secrets of nature. He traces the development of the tradition through the Pythagoreans, the Gnostics, and the alchemists.The second part, "The General History of Freemasonry," discusses the relationship between the Arcane Schools and Freemasonry. Yarker argues that Freemasonry is a continuation of the Arcane Schools, and that its symbols and rituals are derived from the tradition. He also discusses the different rites of Freemasonry, and their relationship to the Arcane Schools.