Characters and Characterization in the Book of Samuel - (Library of Hebrew Bible/Old Testament Studies) by Keith Bodner & Benjamin J M Johnson

Book Synopsis

Characters provide the entry point to the story of the books of Samuel, just as they do in all stories. In this book the history of research into characters in Samuel, and the role(s) they play in the text are examined and discussed. The contributors look at the interpretative function of characters in the Samuel stories, and at issues of textual composition and what profiling of characters within the text can add to theories surrounding this issue.

Specific characters are also profiled and studied. The character of God is examined: is God kind towards Israel? Is God loving and 'worthy to be praised' 2 Sam 22.4. Characters such as Hannah are examined from the perspective of literary type, as well as Eli as priest and Samuel himself as prophet. All of the major characters within the books are studied, including David and Jonathan, and chapters also treat the minor characters and offer information on their roles in the structure of the text. The contributors provide a range of different approaches to characterization, according to their specific expertise, and provide a thorough handbook to the characters in Samuel and their roles in the literary make-up of the text.

Review Quotes

"The 17 essays found in this volume are a thoughtful collection of scholarly research that focus on the significance of character and characterization in the book of Samuel ... A collection such as this one provides an opportunity to explore the many facets of the characters of Samuel. For those who wish to delve into the world of poetics and characterization with a focus on a particular character in Samuel, this collection is a good place to start. For those who want to explore particular texts in the Book of Samuel and their exegetical analysis, this volume provides a rich source. I look forward to reading the companion volume on the Book of Kings." - Biblische Notizen

About the Author

Keith Bodner is Professor of Religious Studies at Crandall University, USA.

Benjamin J.M. Johnson is Tutor in Religious Interpretation at Wycliffe Hall, University of Oxford, UK.