"Until recently, angels were a relatively neglected aspect of the early modern supernatural world. But belief in angels was a constant during an age of religious and social upheaval, creating an interesting and important measurement of historical change. This study looks at how the Church utilized the belief in angels to enforce new and evolving doctrine. Because they were theologically adaptable, angels were recruited by clergymen of all denominations to support their particular dogma. Sangha examines these various stances and applies the role of angel-belief further, to issues of wider cultural and political significance."--P. 4 of cover.