The Four Zoas

The Four Zoas are symbolic aspects of the human psyche introduced by William Blake, representing different facets of consciousness. Typically, they are identified as Urthona (imagination and inspiration), Los (art and craftsmanship), Tharmas (physical sensation and instinct), and Urizen (reason and authority). These Zoas embody the ongoing internal struggle between emotion, intellect, instinct, and imagination that shape human experience. Blake saw their harmony as essential for spiritual growth, with their conflicts reflecting personal and societal challenges. Overall, the Four Zoas serve as a poetic framework to explore how these interconnected parts influence our perceptions and development.