Dictionary of Phrase and Fable—A

Alma

(the human soul), queen of “Body Castle,” beset by enemies for seven years (the Seven Ages of Man). The besiegers are a rabble rout of evil desires, foul imaginations, and silly conceits. Alma conducted Arthur and Sir Guyon over her castle. “The divine part of a man,” says Spenser, “is circular, a circle being the emblem of eternity; but the mortal part triangular, as it consists of three things—blood, flesh, and bones.” —Prior's Poem.

Source: Dictionary of Phrase and Fable, E. Cobham Brewer, 1894
Alma Mater
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