Rhetorical Argumentation in Biblical Texts: Essays from the Lund 2000 Conference

(Paperback)

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In the latest volume in the Emory Studies in Early Christianity series, the contributors seek a better understanding of how various biblical authors present their arguments, support their claims, and attempt to persuade their readers. A century ago the rhetorical analysis of texts focused on the study of rhetorical figures in texts (elocutio). In the mid-twentieth century, scholars such as James Muilenburg, Hans Dieter Betz, and Wilhelm Wuellner introduced biblical scholars to the illustrious tradition of rhetorical study. These scholars tended to focus on the arrangement of the texts themselves (dispositio). During the last ten years, however, interpreters have increasingly studied the rhetorical argumentation in texts. The authors in this volume examine rhetorical argumentation in the Hebrew Bible, the Gospels, the Pauline letters, and the Book of Revelation, offering striking new readings of these materials. Contributors include: J. David Hester (Amador), Center for Rhetoric and Hermeneutics; R. Dean Anderson, Valkenburg, The Netherlands; Harold W. Attridge, Yale Divinity School; L. Gregory Bloomquist, St. Paul University, Ottawa; Michael R. Cosby, Messiah College; Rodney K. Duke, Appalachian State University; Frans H. van Eemeren, University of Amsterdam; Anders Eriksson, Lund University; Alan J. Hauser, Appalachian State University; Roy R. Jeal, William and Catherine Booth College; Manfred Kraus, Eberhard-Karls-Universit+nt, T++bingen; John W. Marshall, University of Toronto; Roland Meynet, Pontificia Universit+a Gregoriana; Thomas H. Olbricht, Emeritus, Pepperdine University; Carol Poster, Florida State University; Rollin A. Ramsaran, Emmanuel School of Religion; Vernon K. Robbins, Emory University and University of Stellenbosch; Russell B. Sisson, Union College; Jerry L. Sumney, Lexington Theological Seminary; C. Jan Swearingen, Texas A & M; Lauri Thur+--n, Univeristy of Joensuu; Johan S. Vos, Vrije Universiteit; and Duane F. Watson, Malone College.

Reviews

"Rhetorical Argumentation in Biblical Texts is a welcome and sophisticated contribution to the expanding field of a rhetoric of inquiry in biblical studies." --Elisabeth Schssler Fiorenza, Krister Stendahl Professor, Harvard University Divinity School -- Elisabeth Schussler Fiorenza * Blurb from reviewer *
"These readable studies, ranging from theories of argument to analyses of passages, show that rhetorical criticism of biblical texts is maturing beyond its initial enthusiasms. The diverse approaches to a variety of texts offer the reader an opportunity to see the possibilities and limits of reading scripture in light of ancient rhetorical theory and practice. All biblical exegetes can profit from this collection." --Leander E. Keck, Winkley Professor of Biblical Theology, emeritus, Yale Divinity School -- Leander E. Keck * Blurb from reviewer *
"[The essays] demonstrate that some knowledge of Greco-Roman and modern rhetorical theories is necessary for biblical scholars...[T]his volume...is crucial for any biblical interpreter." -Religious Studies Review, 1/2004 * Religious Studies Review *

Author Bio

Anders Eriksson teaches New Testament at the University of Lund, Sweden. Thomas Olbricht is Distinguished Professor Emeritus of Religion at Pepperdine University. Thomas Olbricht is Distinguished Professor Emeritus of Religion, Pepperdine University..