Angels: A Very Short Introduction
*Starred Review* Noting that angels figure in today’s so-called New Age religions as well as the three great monotheisms, Jones discusses angels in art, literature, and cinema but also answers the most basic questions (e.g., What is an angel?) while trying to understand what makes angels so appealing and symbolically powerful in modern culture. He reveals how the concept of the angel developed and explains angels’ characteristic as messengers, guardians, and fallen angels. He discusses angels in biblical stories (e.g., Jacob’s ladder) and in liturgy, ventures an intelligent guess as to the number of angels, and even confronts the age-old question of how many can dance on the head of a pin. He addresses the issue of fallen angels and the notion of Satanism and romantic rebellion. Finally, he examines the meaning of angels in religion and pop culture. A persistent theme is, as he puts it, “angelology as disguised anthropology”—the interpretation of angels to procure useful insights into aspects of humanity. A lovely little book, Jones’ work is both accessible and learned, broad enough to include reflections on Thomas Aquinas’ treatise on angels and a discussion of demonic possession in Hollywood movies. Fascinating for believers and nonbelievers alike. --June Sawyers--This text refers to theHardcoveredition.