Of Men and Angels

Michael Arditti's novel Of Men and Angels explores the history of homophobia and religion through five momentous epochs, featuring a young Judean exile, a Guild of Salters mystery play, Botticelli's painting, a bereaved rector, and a closeted gay movie star. It is a novel of breathtaking scope, penetrating insight, and profound human sympathy.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 549 pages
Publication date: 30 May 2019
Publisher: Arcadia Books

Michael Arditti, a masterful storyteller, skillfully employs his theological knowledge to present a thought-provoking yet captivating literary journey. His tenth novel, which delves into the history of homophobia and religion, has garnered critical acclaim and numerous awards, including the Guardian Award. Arditti's novel explores the enduring fascination and horror surrounding God's vengeance on the wicked city of Sodom, spanning five momentous epochs.

In the first epoch, a young Judean exile in ancient Babylon transcribes the Acts of Abraham and Lot. In the second epoch, the Guild of Salters presents a mysterious play of Lot's Wife in medieval York. In the third epoch, Botticelli paints the Destruction of Sodom for a court in Renaissance Florence. In the fourth epoch, a bereaved rector searches for the Cities of the Plain in nineteenth-century Palestine. In the fifth epoch, a closeted gay movie star portrays Lot in a controversial biblical epic in 1980s Hollywood.

Of Men and Angels, through its interconnected narratives and interwoven documents, showcases a remarkable formal inventiveness and imaginative richness. The novel is filled with a diverse range of characters, each as vivid and varied as the others. From temple prostitutes and palace eunuchs to fanatical friars and humanist poets, to Bedouin tribesmen, Russian exiles, and, of course, angels, this novel encompasses a breathtaking scope, offering profound insights and deep human sympathy.

Michael Arditti's mastery of storytelling and his ability to delve into the complexities of religion, history, and human nature make Of Men and Angels a truly remarkable work of literature. It is a testament to his talent as a writer and his commitment to exploring the human condition in all its dimensions.

Weight: 516g
Dimension: 196 x 130 x 42 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781911350576