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Michaelmas Day

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September 29th, one of the quarter-days when rents are paid, and the day when magistrates are elected. Michael the archangel is represented in the Bible as the general of the celestial host, and as such Milton represents him. September 29th is dedicated to Michael and All Angels, and as magistrates were once considered “angels” or their representatives, they were chosen on the day of “All Angels.”

“I saw another sign in heaven … . . seven angels [magistrates, or executors of God’s judgments], having the seven last plagues … . . filled with the wrath of God.” (Rev. xv.l.) Those ministers of religion who acted as magistrates were also called angels. “There is no power but of God. The powers that be are ordained of God.”

 

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A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

Entry taken from Dictionary of Phrase and Fable, edited by the Rev. E. Cobham Brewer, LL.D. and revised in 1895.

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Mexitli
Mezentius
Mezzo Relievo
Mezzo Tinto (Italian, medium tint)
Mezzoramia
Micah Rood’s Apples
Micawber (Mr. Wilkins)
Micawberism
Michael
Michael Angelo
Michaelmas Day
Michal
Michel or Cousin Michael
Miching Malicho
Michon
Mickleton Jury (The)
Microcosm
Mid-Lent Sunday
Midas
Midas-eared
Midden