Introduction : Protestant angels, poets, the imagination -- Understanding angels. Angelographia : writing about angels ; Angelology : knowledge of angels ; A stronger existence : angels, polemic, and radical speculation, 1640-1660 ; Conversations with angels : the Pordages and their angelical world ; The fleshly imagination and the word of God ; Spiritual gifts : angels, inspiration, and prophecy -- Milton's angels. Can angels feign? ; Look homeward angel : angelic guardianship and nationhood ; Angels in Paradise lost ; The natural philosophy of angels ; With the tongues of angels : angelic communication -- Literature and representation. Dryden's fall : dreams, angels, freewill ; Conclusion : angels and literary representation.
Summary:
'Milton's Angels' is a study of writing--theological, scientific, political, and poetic--about angels in 16th century and 17th century Britain. It demonstrates that angels were integral to the Protestant imagination and argues that 'Paradise Lost' is a poem about angels that is both literal and sublimely imaginative.
This resource is supported by the Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act as administered by State Library of Iowa.