What are the main characteristics of angel symbolist novels?

One well - known angel symbolist novel is 'The Sandman' by Neil Gaiman. It contains elements related to angels in a very symbolic and imaginative way.

One of the best symbolist novels is 'The Great Gatsby' by F. Scott Fitzgerald. The green light at the end of Daisy's dock is a powerful symbol representing Gatsby's dreams and desires. Another is 'Moby - Dick' by Herman Melville, where the white whale Moby - Dick symbolizes many things, like nature's power and man's obsession. Also, 'The Scarlet Letter' by Nathaniel Hawthorne, with the scarlet letter 'A' being a complex symbol throughout the story.

Often, they may feature beautiful and ethereal art to represent angels. Their wings might be depicted in great detail, with a lot of use of white or light colors to give that celestial feel.

Sure. 'Madame Bovary' by Gustave Flaubert is a great one. Emma Bovary's affairs and her dreams of a more glamorous life are symbolized through her actions and the settings. 'Wuthering Heights' by Emily Bronte also contains strong symbols. The moors, for example, represent the wild and untamed nature of the characters' emotions. Another is 'To the Lighthouse' by Virginia Woolf, where the lighthouse itself is a symbol of stability and aspiration in the midst of the characters' changing lives.

The physical appearance of angels in these novels also plays into their dominance. They are often described as beautiful and majestic, which gives them an air of superiority. Their abilities, like flight or healing, can be used in the story to show their dominance. For instance, an angel might use his healing power to save the human he loves, but in a way that also shows his control over the situation. In terms of the romantic plot, there's often a struggle as the human tries to assert their own will while being attracted to the angel's dominant nature.

Often, they involve a sense of mystery. Since fallen angels are not fully understood in most mythologies, their motives and powers are often a big part of the mystery in these novels.

Fallen angel novels often explore themes like redemption. The fallen angels in these novels are usually complex characters. They may have once been pure and good in a celestial realm but due to some reasons like disobedience or a fall from grace, they now exist in a more conflicted state. For example, they might struggle between their former angelic nature and the new, darker experiences they've had.

Another theme could be self - discovery. The angels may start out with a certain understanding of themselves and their place in the world, but as the story progresses in the novels, they might learn new things about their abilities, purpose, and identity, which could be a major part of the overall narrative.

One of the main themes is the concept of redemption. Angel, being a vampire with a soul, is constantly seeking redemption for his past sins. Buffy also has her own journey of self - discovery and growth while fighting the forces of darkness. Another theme is friendship. The relationships between Buffy, her friends, and Angel's allies play important roles in the novels. These themes are intertwined with the overarching plot of saving the world from various threats.

Often, they explore the complex relationship between Spike and Angel. Their rivalry, their grudging respect for each other, and the possibility of them working together are common themes. For example, in many fanfictions, they might start as enemies but end up as allies due to some external threat.