One of the most ambitious essays in the interpretation of Dante is Charles Williams' subtle and individual interpretation of the role of Beatrice. Williams' mysticism is palpable--the unseen world interpenetrates ours at every point, and spiritual exchange occurs continuously, unseen and largely unlooked for.

One of the most ambitious essays in the interpretation of Dante our time has seen...his interpretation of the role of Beatrice is a subtle and individual one. Charles Williams was one of the finest-not to mention one of the most unusual-theologians of the twentieth century. His mysticism is palpable-the unseen world interpenetrates ours at every point, and spiritual exchange occurs all the time, unseen and largely unlooked for. His novels are legend, and as a member of the Inklings, he contributed to the mythopoetic revival in contemporary culture.