Deconstructing the Apocalypse? Supernatural’s Postmodern Appropriation of Angelic Hierarchies

Biblical angels are understood variously by early and medieval writers, both Jewish and Christian. Many, though not all, believe angels to be real beings but, real or not, these theological commentators think the metaphysical contemplation of angels can help humans to grow in both self-understanding and in the perception of and closeness to God. The modern-day theologian Steven Chase explains that past interpreters of scripture “understood angelic beings to be fluid and subtle. The angelic essence, their names, their ministries and their functions were varied and complex” (8). Although Chase is referring to early Christian commentators like Pseudo-Dionysius and medieval scholastic writers such as Bonaventure of Bagnoregio, this complex perspective is also evident in Jewish biblical or theological commentary, including the Midrash and Talmud. To all these writers, the angels of the Bible represent a multiplicity of virtues. They also interact with humanity in many ways—as guardians, guides, healers, mediators, messengers, judges, proclaimers of truth, and warriors. In seasons four and five of the television series Supernatural, the representation of angels is much less diverse.