ABSTRACT
The trinitarian image in the soul makes it possible, as well as desirable, for human beings to aim high in their conduct: 'respect that Image in thy selfe, and exalt thy naturall faculties'. To Donne it was axiomatic that, because God created human beings in his own trinitarian image, it is worth his while to take good care of them. For in imprinting its trinitarian image in the human soul, the Trinity is at its most attractively economic. Nor was Donne content with the idea of a single trinity implanted by the Trinity. Donne's wish to hold up the Trinity's behaviour as exemplary for human beings would be an additional reason for his lack of interest in the immanent Trinity. The confusion is manifest but is due to Donne's respect for humanity. When Donne applies the word to the actions of the Trinity in the creation of humanity, it is not always clear which meaning is intended.
