Saint Michael the Archangel in Medieval English Legend

This scholarly work offers a comprehensive examination of how Saint Michael the Archangel was understood and depicted throughout medieval England, tracing his presence across liturgical texts, literary works, and visual art. Johnson meticulously reconstructs the archangel's evolving role, from a cosmic warrior in theological doctrine to a more personal intercessor in local devotion, providing a detailed portrait of his significance in the medieval spiritual landscape. The analysis connects theological concepts with their tangible expressions in daily religious life, showing how a single figure could embody both divine judgment and merciful protection.

What distinguishes this study is its interdisciplinary approach, weaving together evidence from manuscript illuminations, church architecture, and popular hagiography to present a multifaceted view of medieval piety. Readers with a serious interest in religious history, hagiography, or medieval studies will find a wealth of carefully researched material that illuminates how abstract beliefs were made manifest in culture. The book ultimately reveals how the veneration of Saint Michael provides a unique window into the complex interplay between official church teachings and the lived experience of faith during this period.