Angels and Insects is a collection that consists of two fairly substantial novellas. The first one, Morpho Eugenia, delves into the world of insects, while the second, The Conjugial Angel, focuses more on the realm of angels. Both are set in 19th century England, and Byatt does a remarkable job of immersing the reader in that era.

In Morpho Eugenia, we follow the story of William Adamson. He starts as a guest of the wealthy Alabaster family and eventually marries into it. After a shipwreck in the Amazon where he loses most of his possessions and specimens, he becomes fascinated by insects, especially butterflies and ants. Adamson comes from a different class and background than the Alabasters. He is an outsider in their close-knit family. Eugenia, the daughter he falls for, warns him that she cannot be loved, but Adamson persists. They have a double wedding with Eugenia's sister and he is welcomed into the family.
Adamson is kept busy organizing the family's collection, but he longs to go on another Amazonian expedition. Meanwhile, his wife keeps having children, and he notices that they seem to absorb the Alabaster essence and become like little Alabasters themselves. Throughout the novella, there is a contrast between the world of nature and the civilized world of the Alabasters. Adamson also discovers Eugenia's secret, which leads to a dramatic turn of events.
The novella does a great job of comparing civilization to the way animals live. Byatt presents some interesting examples, such as the role of women and the laws of nature. However, the exploration of human relationships is a bit cursory. Adamson's love for Eugenia doesn't feel fully developed, and Byatt doesn't explore how their relationship changes after they are married. Nevertheless, Morpho Eugenia is still an accomplished and clever work of scientific fiction.
The Conjugial Angel is a very different novella. It is dominated by poetry, with Byatt quoting extensively. Set in roughly the same time period, it is less scientific and more spiritual, or at least concerned with spiritualism. The characters are focused on ideals such as true conjugial love and the search for one's soulmate. Poets like Keats and Tennyson play an important role, with Tennyson's In Memoriam being the central work. The novella creatively addresses themes such as mourning, death, and the longing for answers. However, it is an odd mix of modern and Victorian elements. While it is formally and stylistically impressive, it doesn't fully convince as a story. Overall, Angels and Insects is a thought-provoking collection that offers two very different but equally engaging novellas.

This book is evidently tailored for those who are truly, truly inclined towards literature. It abounds with extensive passages of poetry, similar to that found in "Possession", and profound philosophical contemplations. Generally speaking, I don't usually have the feeling that I'm insufficiently educated for the books I read, given my rather diverse taste. However, this particular book presented such a case.

Books of this nature often manage to engage my thoughts, offering some sort of aftereffect or benefit, even if I don't immediately fall in love with them. Nevertheless, Byatt seems to be predominantly centered around the issues that prevailed in Victorian England, and these simply don't hold much interest for me. It's a pity, as the literary quality of the work is undeniable, but the subject matter fails to resonate with my personal inclinations.

Perhaps if I had a greater affinity for the historical context and the specific concerns of that era, I might have been able to appreciate this book on a deeper level. As it stands, while I can recognize its merits, it doesn't quite manage to capture my full attention and enthusiasm.

I stopped reading about half-way through, specifically after the first novella.

The main reason I kept going for as long as I did was because I really enjoyed the parts that focused on the insects. You see, I have a penchant for observing the critters in my own yard, so the detailed descriptions of the ants and their behavior, as penned by the main male character and the woman he has feelings for (who isn't his wife), really piqued my interest.

In fact, I was so engrossed in those sections that I can't even remember the names of the main characters. How ironic is that?

Anyway, this woman who isn't his wife also writes a book or short story for children, and it is included within the novella. Surprisingly, I actually liked this addition quite a bit. However, it wasn't enough to compel me to read the rest of the book.

Maybe if the story had delved deeper into the insect world or provided more unique perspectives, I would have been more inclined to continue. But as it stands, I'm content with having read what I did.

The writing in this piece is quite good. The author has a certain command of the language, and the sentences are constructed in a relatively smooth and coherent manner.

However, the story itself is rather boring. It seems to focus almost entirely on the life of ants, which might not be of great interest to a wide range of readers.

Unless, of course, you have a particular affinity for ants. In that case, you might find the detailed descriptions of their daily activities, social structures, and behaviors quite fascinating.

But for those who don't have a special interest in ants, this story might struggle to hold their attention. It lacks the kind of excitement, drama, or unique perspective that would make it more engaging and appealing.

Overall, while the writing is good, the story's subject matter and lack of a broader appeal make it a bit of a disappointment.

Angels and Insects by A.S. Byatt is a captivating work that delves into the themes of freedom, suffocation, and moral hypocrisy within the Victorian age.

In Morpho Eugenia, the shipwrecked naturalist William Adamson finds himself under the protection of a wealthy Victorian family. He soon succumbs to the allure of the mysterious Eugenia. Byatt's prose is rich with beauty and eroticism, as seen in the descriptions of their relationship.

Just as Adamson collects specimens, he is ensnared by Sir Harald Alabaster and set to the task of classification, mirroring the strict order of upper-class Victorian society. The contrast between Adamson's past as an explorer and the restrictions of polite society is emphasized, and we discover that the family hides secrets as dark as the jungle.

The Conjugial Angel explores grief and transiency through the Victorian fascination with séances. Byatt quotes Tennyson's In Memoriam, and Emily, the central figure, suffers as deeply as Alfred. The story also touches on the physical desires of Emily and Alfred for Arthur, as well as Mrs. Papagay's longing for her lost husband.

Both stories contain dark themes, but also elements of the fantastical. Byatt immerses us in the stifling world of the Victorian parlour, yet leaves room for hope and possibility. The protagonists look to the future with optimism, their eyes turned towards the stars.

Although the Victorianesque language can be heavy at times, it is worth persevering through for the beauty and insight it offers. Byatt's work is a testament to her talent as a writer and her ability to explore complex themes with depth and nuance.

Overall, Angels and Insects is a thought-provoking and engaging read that will appeal to fans of Victorian literature and those interested in exploring the human condition.

Angels & Insects is a captivating book that consists of two engaging novellas, namely “Morpho Eugenia” and “The Conjugial Angel”.

The most appealing aspect of this book, for me, is undoubtedly its title. Set within the context of the Victorian era, Byatt delves deep into the profound clashes that occur between theology, nature, and human desires.

Even within the relatively short span of a novella, Byatt ensures that there is a meticulously detailed plot that keeps the reader hooked. However, when compared to some of her other remarkable works such as Possession and Bable Tower, I couldn't help but feel that Angels & Insects is somewhat less rich in its writing.

There were moments when the narrative seemed to drag a little, making it a touch too boring for my taste. Nevertheless, it still offers valuable insights and a unique exploration of the themes it presents.

Overall, while it may not be Byatt's most outstanding work, Angels & Insects is still a worthy addition to any literature lover's collection.

Must be completely honest - I've read "Angels & Insects" halfway.

Just can't get through "The Conjugal Angel" as it's just brutally weird. My eyes read the words, but my brain goes "Aggh! Can't compute - the names, the plot, the details, aggh - they just don't work!"

I do love the first story. The characters of William and Amy and Matty come through clear as a bell.

Just rip the book in half, place the first half on your must-read-again shelf and the last on the maybe-on-a-long-weekend-and-there-is-nothing-else-to-read shelf.

However, there's always something else to read, isn't there?

It seems that this book has left me with a rather mixed impression. While the first story was engaging and the characters were well-developed, the second part was a struggle to get through.

The strange and convoluted nature of "The Conjugal Angel" made it difficult for me to follow and understand.

Perhaps it's a matter of personal taste, but I found myself losing interest and motivation as I delved deeper into this story.

Nonetheless, I still appreciate the author's attempt to explore different themes and styles within the same book.

And who knows, maybe on another occasion, when I'm in a different mood or have more time to spare, I might give "The Conjugal Angel" another chance.

But for now, I'll be moving on to other books that catch my attention and offer a more enjoyable reading experience.

That was a really shitty thing.

It has completely drained me both physically and mentally.

I feel so exhausted and worn out.

Every ounce of my energy seems to have been sucked away.

I don't know how much more I can take.

It's like a never-ending nightmare that just keeps pulling me down.

I'm at a loss for what to do next.

My mind is a jumble of confusion and frustration.

Physically, I can barely move.

My body feels heavy and achy.

I just want to curl up in a ball and forget about everything.

But I know I can't.

I have to find a way to pick myself up and keep going.

Even though it seems impossible right now.

These are two novellas contained within one volume.

The first novella, Morpho Eugenia, was adapted into an aesthetically breathtaking movie titled Angels and Insects in 1995. When the movie was released, I was truly fond of it. However, I haven't had the opportunity to watch it since then. Reading the book provided a nice review of the movie, and more. It is a really beautifully written, clever novel of ideas that is very skillfully woven together to be satisfying on both intellectual and emotional levels.

On the other hand, I simply couldn't get engaged with the second novella at all. Just like the first one, it is also set in Victorian times. But this particular novella deals with spiritual seances and the life of Alfred Lord Tennyson and his sister Emily. Despite being a big fan of Byatt, I attempted to make progress with it several times. However, in the end, I just skimmed through it. Maybe at some other time, I'll actually take the time to read it thoroughly.

I loved this so much.

It was truly an amazing piece.

Just like all the other works I've read of hers so far, it was definitely worth the effort.

The way she writes is so captivating and engaging.

Her words have a certain charm that draws you in and makes you want to keep reading.

Each sentence is carefully crafted and filled with meaning.

You can tell that she puts a lot of thought and care into her writing.

Whether it's the plot, the characters, or the setting, everything is well-developed and comes together beautifully.

I can't wait to read more of her work in the future.

She is definitely an author to watch out for.

I highly recommend her books to anyone who loves good literature.

You won't be disappointed.

A S Byatt once again delves into the Victorian era, which she portrays so adeptly, by combining two novellas, “Morpho Eugenia” and “The Conjugial Angel”.

“Morpho Eugenia” is about William Adamson, an Amazonian explorer who returns and consults with Lord Alabaster, a cleric obsessed with moths, butterflies, and insects. Adamson agrees to catalogue his collection and becomes involved with his family, marrying one of the daughters. This gothic tale is rich in symbolism, with Adamson himself becoming a specimen. Byatt plays with the surname Alabaster and the idea of purity, decay, and degeneracy. It is set during the time of Darwinian ideas and the debate about evolution, adding another layer of tension. The descriptions of the social life of ants are both gruesome and fascinating. Matty Crompton is an interesting character who serves as an intellectual foil to Adamson.

The Conjugial Angel explores the Victorian obsession with séances and the afterlife. The main focus is on Emily Jesse (formerly Emily Tennyson), Alfred Tennyson’s sister. The séances revolve around Arthur Hallam, the subject of Tennyson’s poem In Memoriam. Byatt examines love, memory, and the way the living interact with the dead. There is a bleakness to the séances, and Byatt adds some Swedenborgian theology for added interest. The use of the poem is excellent, and there are some masterful touches of symbolism and humour.

These two novellas offer a snapshot of the Victorian period, with its eccentricities and hidden depths. The strong characters are the women, while the men are mostly weak or villainous. Byatt writes beautifully, and if you enjoy Victorian tales, these novellas are for you.

A bit of a mixed bag.

The first novella in this collection, Morpho Eugenia, is truly well-written and masterfully plotted. It tells the story of a Victorian man of science and his ill-fated marriage within a well-bred household. This tale delves deep into the Victorian struggles of science versus religion, classism, and morality, presented in a thought-provoking "what separates man from beasts?" kind of way. The metaphors employed are not at all subtle; insects and angels seem to be present on nearly every page. However, despite this, the story itself progresses at a cracking pace, and I simply couldn't put it down.

The second story, The Conjugial Angel, on the other hand, is much weaker. This one focuses on the Victorians' obsession with spiritualism and death. Unlike the first novella, it features multiple narrators, which unfortunately proves to be a drawback as their voices are too similar. Additionally, the story revolves around Tennyson's younger sister and a doomed romance with another poet. This means that a significant amount of poetry is quoted. Personally, I prefer my poetry in much smaller doses and without lengthy digressions into its meaning and each character's reaction to it.

So, I would rate Morpho Eugenia 4 stars and The Conjugial Angel 2 stars, resulting in an average of 3 stars overall.