Narrative Criticism of the New Testament: An Introduction - Paperback

by James L. Resseguie (Author)

Narrative criticism is a relatively recent development that applies literary methods to the study of Scripture. James Resseguie suggests that this approach to reading the Bible treats the text as a self-contained unit and avoids complications raised by other critical methods of interpretation.

Resseguie begins with an introductory chapter that surveys the methods of narrative criticism and how they can be used to discover important nuances of meaning through what he describes as a "close reading" of the text. He then devotes chapters to the principal rhetorical devices: setting, point of view, character, rhetoric, plot, and reader.

Readers will find here an accessible introduction to the subject of narrative criticism and a richly rewarding approach to reading the Bible.

Back Jacket

Resseguie's 'narrative commentary' on the book of Revelation helps the reader follow in the footsteps of John the narrator. The author allows us to hear what John heard and see what John saw, so that the sights and sounds of the book mutually interpret and enrich one another. In his hands, this last book of the Christian Bible becomes neither a coded account of first-century Roman politics nor a timetable of future events, but a story in its own right, a story of judgment and redemption to be heard afresh in every generation, not least our own. Highly recommended.--J. Ramsey Michaels, Missouri State University, Springfield"With great skill, Resseguie presents a unified reading of John's Apocalypse as seen through the lens of narrative criticism in the grand tradition of Northrop Frye. The book provides not only careful discussion of major literary concerns but also a close reading of the text from beginning to end, a reading in constant dialogue with a wide range of scholars. This is a welcome addition to the growing body of work analyzing the Apocalypse as a narrative, and whether you find yourself agreeing or disagreeing on specific points, you will find a stimulating and well-argued commentary."--David L. Barr, Wright State University"Resseguie invites us to enter the story world of Revelation and to explore it from within. While remaining fully attentive to historical and linguistic concerns, he also exposes the book's literary features. Anyone who wants to understand the book of Revelation will find this book helpful, but be forewarned: you may come to regard 'understanding' as a minimal goal. This is a commentary that moves beyond intellectual understanding to profound appreciation of a classic, literary work of art."--Mark Allan Powell, Trinity Lutheran Seminary"In addition to being nicely illustrated and very readable, this book brings the advantage of careful attention to John's story. Where many commentators read the text of Revelation as though they know the story in advance, Resseguie leaves the author's story in control. This commentary is a breed apart."--Sigve Tonstad, Loma Linda University"Resseguie's narrative commentary invites contemporary readers to venture into Revelation's literary world and to sense the transformative power of its text. Written in a clear and accessible style, this study helps readers see Revelation as a whole, guiding them through its scenes of cosmic conflict and into the New Jerusalem."--Craig R. Koester, Luther Seminary

Author Biography

James L. Resseguie (Ph.D., Fuller Theological Seminary) is the author of several narrative-critical studies, the most recent of which is Spiritual Landscape: Images of the Spiritual Life in the Gospel of Luke. He is the J. Russell Bucher Professor of New Testament at Winebrenner Theological Seminary.