Archetypes and the Fourth Gospel: Literature and Theology in Conversation

(Hardback)

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Description

Employing Northrop Fryes system of archetypal literary criticism the use of romance, tragedy, irony and satire, and comedy Brian Larsen offers a compelling summary of the essential governing framework and means of exchange between literature and theology. Characters in the Fourth Gospel are examined through a specific archetype, and, reciprocally, these characters illuminate and inform important theological aspects of their respective archetypes: Jesus and romance (hero story); Pilate and tragedy; the Jews and Thomas and irony; and Peter and comedy. This volume further clarifies the understanding of Fryes archetypesand identifies the key variable between each one: the relationship between (1) a belief or ideal and (2) experience or reality. Helping to advance dialogue between literature, biblical studies and theology, and providing insightful readings for a number of Fourth Gospel characters and texts, Larsens examination will appeal to those seeking a new perspective on the themes of the New Testament or those seeking theological insights into literature.

Reviews

[Larsen] successfully integrates a wide range of sources and ideas to enhance reading of the Gospel of John, and the recognition of various characters according to type. Larsens interdisciplinary approach proves that profound insight is found in the overlap between specializations. * Reading Religion *
The archetypal approach to literature is a necessary lens for anyone who reads and interprets literary texts, including ones in the Bible As someone who never abandoned the archteypal approach to literary analysis, my heart leaped when I became aware of Brian Larsens application of that approach to the Gospel of John. * Journal of the Evangelical Theological Society *

Author Bio

Brian Larsen is Associate Professor of English at Simpson University, USA.