Angels are big at the moment, all it takes is a glance at recent books and films to see it, but this spurt into the spotlight seems very sudden for mythical beings that have been around for centuries. The question of whether angels exist or not certainly isn't a new one, but it's one that has recently been finding itself on the lips of more and more people. It seems that curiosity in these winged beings has been piqued somehow, but what is it that has caused a resurgence in the popularity of angels and the supernatural? And what is it that has caused the shift in the representation of angels from the traditional rosy image you see on Christmas cards to the evil, malevolent angels that are cropping up in films like Legion?

One reason is likely to be the fact that people simply like a good scare from their entertainment; why else would terrifying fun fair rides be so popular? Reading about exciting events or watching action packed films can provoke similar reactions in people to them actually experiencing the thrills and spills for themselves and supernatural stories are a perfect way for people to enjoy a safe scare.

Vampires have been top of the chillers chart for quite some time now - think of hit shows such as Buffy or True Blood, but werewolves have recently managed to grab themselves a slice of the action too. The Twilight Saga is a perfect example of vampires and werewolves working together - or against each other - to create an exciting story that's captured the imagination of fans from all over the world.

British show Being Human also has a supernatural theme and sees a ghost, vampire and werewolf trying to make it in the 'real world' together. From TV to the big screen to teen books and adult novels, the supernatural is a hot topic at the moment and the recent interest in angels suggests that the winged beings might be about to move into the spotlight, whether anyone will be able to replicate the success of massive supernatural hits such as the Twilight Saga is another question.

Angels have been brought back the centre of public attention, but the chances are that it's not just one factor that's put them there - it's more likely to be a combination of different social and cultural trends. One thing factor that could be influencing the kind of entertainment people are turning to is global recession; as dark times have descended around the world, so people search for means of escapism. And what's more escapist than stories about supernatural beings such as vampires, werewolves and angels?

Anyone interested in angelology or supernatural stories will be glad to know that the themes are likely to preoccupy audiences and creators alike in years to come. After all, a good scare is sometimes the best way to find yourself transported into another world for a while.

Adam Singleton writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.