Aziraphale Good Omens

Ed Bradley

2 min read

·

01-12-2024

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Aziraphale, the angel in Neil Gaiman and Terry Pratchett's Good Omens, isn't your typical celestial being. He's a creature of exquisite taste, a connoisseur of the finer things in life, and, dare we say it, rather charmingly flawed. While ostensibly on Earth to thwart the arrival of the Antichrist, his actions often suggest a preference for maintaining the status quo, a quiet, comfortable existence amongst humanity's foibles.

A Collector of Curios and Comfort

His bookshop, a haven of antique volumes and earthly delights, serves as a microcosm of his character. It's a space where the sacred and profane coexist, reflecting Aziraphale's own nuanced approach to his millennia-long tenure on Earth. He's collected not just books, but experiences, friendships, and a deep appreciation for the peculiar beauty of human existence. His collection of porcelain, his carefully cultivated garden – these details speak to a soul that finds joy in the simple pleasures, even amidst the looming threat of Armageddon.

A Surprisingly Effective (and Reluctant) Agent of Good

Despite his angelic status, Aziraphale demonstrates a distinct lack of enthusiasm for divine intervention. His preference for subtly influencing events, rather than enacting grand, divinely orchestrated plans, hints at a growing fondness for humanity. He’s not above manipulating events to his advantage, though his methods are often endearingly clumsy. His attempts to prevent the Antichrist's rise to power are less about fulfilling a heavenly mandate and more about maintaining a personal comfort zone – a world where he can continue to enjoy his books, his wine, and the quiet hum of everyday life.

The Unexpected Friendship

His unlikely partnership with Crowley, the demon, is one of the series' most compelling elements. Their relationship is a testament to the complexities of good and evil, showcasing how even opposing forces can find common ground – or at least a mutual appreciation for a well-crafted meal and a shared history. Their bickering and begrudging camaraderie are a constant source of humor and highlight the show's subversive take on traditional notions of heaven and hell.

More Than Meets the Eye

Aziraphale is more than just a charming angel; he's a complex character grappling with his own beliefs and allegiances. He represents a comforting familiarity, a sense of stability in a world on the brink of chaos. His reluctance to engage fully in the celestial war reveals a subtle rebellious streak, an unspoken yearning for autonomy and a life lived outside the rigid confines of heaven and hell. Ultimately, Aziraphale’s enduring appeal lies in his humanity; he's a celestial being who truly appreciates the earthly realm, reminding us that even angels can find beauty and comfort in the most unexpected places.