The secular angel in contemporary children's literature: David ...

subject to the laws of optics. They engage in more intimate relations with
humanity than in any other modern text. Their representation engenders
conceptual problems: as the poet John Dryden complained, their
numerousness is perplexing. […] Milton’s angels are a mix of literal
representation, extensive learning, unusually theology, and inspired
storytelling, all subordinated to a narrative that is at once descriptive and
heuristic. (Raymond, 2010, 10)
Pullman’s description of angels—apart from their abovementioned ethereal nature—does not
significantly differ from Milton’s in regards to their communication and relationships with
humans. It is interesting to note, yet difficult to pinpoint, the reason behind Pullman’s
decision to present them in a Christian light as far as their appearance and nature is concerned,
while, at the same time, creating two apparently male angels—defying their stereotypical
asexual nature—who are in love with each other. Baruch and Balthamos are two angels whose
nature and background are introduced in the beginning of AS; they tell the truth, but are
weaker than human beings because they do not have true flesh. They are not of a high order
among angels and so they can barely be seen, especially in daylight. They also state that they
are far wiser than human beings. They undoubtedly form a pair in the trilogy, as they are
companions and have loved each other deeply for many years. Baruch, who was once a man,
was transformed into an angel by Balthamos.
Despite the love that he has for Baruch, he also expresses gratitude in that he has learned
to be kinder because of him. Baruch’s death in the AS changes Balthamos, and following a
short time of overwhelming grief, he vows to help Will in his quest, but to do so “cheerfully
and willingly, for the sake of Baruch” (Pullman, AS, 93). Both angels play a small but a
nonetheless vital role in the trilogy. These two angels, however, also stand for something else.
Their apparent homosexual love for one another is one of the many reasons the author has
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