The Rhetoric of Characterization of God, Jesus and Jesus' Disciples in the Gospel of Mark

Description

This study develops a method for analyzing the semantic and narrative rhetoric of repetition and the narrative rhetoric and function of characterization and applies this method in studies of the characterization of God, Jesus, and Jesus' disciples in the Gospel of Mark. The studies of characterization distinguish beliefs that are assumed for the audience from beliefs that the narration cultivates for the audience, identifies the rhetorical relationships and organization of cultivated beliefs, and clarifies the contribution of each character's portrayal to the overall narrative development of Mark. The study then considers the contribution of the characterization of the women at the tomb to the portrayal of Jesus' disciples and narrative developments. A concluding inquiry investigates the possible applications of the studies of characterization for determining the rhetorical exigency of the narration and for formulating statements of Mark's proposed theology.

Paul Danove is Professor of New Testament Studies at Villanova University, USA.

Reviewed in Theologische Literaturezeitung 136 (2011) 5 "In recent years Mark's Gospel has been the testing ground for new interpretive methods. Danove's rigorous analysis of the semantic and narrative rhetoric at work in this Gospel's characterizations of God, Jesus, and Jesus' disciples helps to illumine both Mark's literary achievement and his theological concerns. This fresh study has implications for every facet of Markan scholarship." -Daniel J. Harrington, S.J., Professor of NT, Weston Jesuit School of Theology * Blurb from reviewer * "Danove's work, in its typically methodical and careful fashion, brings remarkable insight to bear on the narrative rhetorical dynamics of Mark and the issue of characterization. Danove proves the value of an approach informed first and foremost by an appreciation of rhetoric and its power to reveal and appreciate the means and dynamics of narrative persuasion upon *real* audiences. Glimpses of Kenneth Burke, reader-response criticism, and semantic frame theory come together to offer an approach unrivaled in its detail and precision, warranting serious consideration of his provocative conclusions on Mark's concept of discipleship: It is *you*, the reader, and *not* the disciples, whom must go to meet Jesus in Galilee and bring to fulfillment the promise of the 'good news.'" -J. David Hester Centre for Rhetorics & Hermeneutics, Senior Editor of Queen: A Journal of Rhetoric & Power * Blurb from reviewer * 'the overall approach is meticulous, reflecting a keen analytical eye and dedication to scientific analysis of data. The book makes helpful distinctions about both author and audience(s) of Mark that should profit future scholarship. The book includes an appendix with graphic representation of parts of the author's analysis, a biography and an index of references and authors.' Clare K. Rothschild, Expository Times, 01/10/2006 -- Clare K. Rothschild * Expository Times * 'the rigour and comprehensiveness of his method ensure very reliable and insightful exegesis results which could...contribute to a better understanding of the theological development of the Synoptic Gospels. This Book is an important contribution to the rhetorical criticism of Mark's Gospel.' ~ Seamus O'Connell, Vol 28.5, 2006 -- Seamus O'Connell * Journal for the Study of the New Testament *