What are angels? Where were they first encountered? Can we distinguish angels from gods, fairies, ghosts, and aliens? And why do they remain so popular?
This Very Short Introduction outlines some of the more prominent stories and speculations about angels in Judaism, Islam, Christianity and post-Christian spiritualities. It reflects on the way that angels have been portrayed in art, whether as young men in the Hebrew Scriptures, androgynous winged creatures of the pre-Raphaelites or the masculine statue of the Angel of the North. It will also consider angels in films such as Wim Wenders' Wings of Desire, and Frank Capra's It's a Wonderful Life, as well as angels in literature.
From the idea of the angel as a messenger, through to the image of angels sent to protect and help those in need, this is an examination of the implications of angels. It will ask why people find the idea of angels attractive, helpful or consoling, and why they remain so powerful in modern culture.
It advances the view that reflecting on angels can teach us something about human existence and whether or not we believe that they exist in their own right, the angels can still illuminate our thoughts.
1: Preface
2: A brief history of angels
3: Picturing angels
4: What is an angel?
5: Divine messengers
6: Ministering spirits
7: Heavenly hosts
8: Fallen angels
9: Wrestling with angels
1: Preface
2: A brief history of angels
3: Picturing angels
4: What is an angel?
5: Divine messangers
6: Ministering spirits
7: Heavenly hosts
8: Fallen angels
9: Wrestling with angels
Further reading
Review from previous edition
Small but perfectly formed volume...everyone should have this book. - Peter Brookesmith, Fortean Times
If anybody should know about angels, it's this guy... a very intelligent but very accessibly history. - Kate Saunders, BBC Radio 2
A colourful and comprehensive overview of our fascination with angels. - Peter Stamford, The Independent
As a guide to the celestial realms, I would put my faith in him any day. - Peter Stamford, The Independent
This is a good book. - Stephen Cave, Financial Times
The first stop for anyone seriously interested in angels. - Christopher Howse, The Telegraph
ISBN : 9780199547302
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