"With its ancient ritual, closely guarded secrets, arcane symbols and intriguing regalia, Freemasonry has fascinated people for almost three hundred years--but the mystery has led to myth and often to misunderstanding...The picture is completed with coverage of the various Higher Degrees and affiliated organizations around the world, including the Shriners, the Order of the Eastern Star, the Knights Templar, and Scottish and York Rites"--Inside jacket cover.