The originality of Angel: After the Fall lies in choosing the third way. Or, rather, paradoxically combining the first two.

Well put! I didn't recognize it before, but you're absolutely right. And it is very realistic - perhaps moreso than either tradition on its own.

The set-up - how would you behave in Hell? - is a sore point for modern America.

Indeed it is, and I am looking forward to seeing how Whedon and Lynch tackle these kinds of important and relevant questions.