The Markan matrix (a literary-structural analysis of the Gospel of Mark)

Palmer, David G. (1998) The Markan matrix (a literary-structural analysis of the Gospel of Mark). PhD thesis, University of Glasgow.

Abstract

This thesis takes account of the basic need, in regard to all study of Mark's Gospel, of an understanding of his outline plan, and his presentational-method. A thorough-going, purely literary-structural analysis is tackled. It is a task that has been waiting to be done in this era of modern biblical criticism.

In the Introduction, it is recognised that through the years investigative methodologies have been developed, and that today still more are being added to the list. That fundamental questions remain unanswered, however, is also recognised. On matters of Mark's leading idea, and his theological, literary and compositional abilities, all these methodologies have led so far only to a bewildering increase in contradictory views. An analysis of the text is needed still. The cultural and historical context of the Gospel, therefore is addressed afresh. Underlying issues regarding the functionings of the 'new' literary genre of Gospel are raised. The particular requirements of a plan and presentational method are also explored. Against this backdrop, the primary importance of "Days" in Mark's presentation is introduced, and Mark's "Day" is defined. Literary-structural analysis begins with identifying the signals of primary structure. It develops as Mark's construction method becomes clear.

In chapters 2 to 7, the text of the Gospel, as it stands, is examined and analysed fully. The gospel narrative (1.21-16.8) is found to consist of twenty-eight days which are presented in four Series of seven "Days". Each Series represents a Stage in the Mission of Jesus. Contrary to accepted scholarship, the Prologue is defined as the first twenty verses (1.1-20), and a reduced "longer ending" of nine-and-a-half verses (16.9-16,19,20a) is deemed to be representative, in its form and in the majority of its details, of an Epilogue which Mark himself created with the Prologue as a frame to his Gospel.

• Item Type: Thesis (PhD)
• Qualification Level: Doctoral
• Additional Information: Department of Theology and Religious Studies
• Subjects: B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BS The Bible
• Colleges/Schools: College of Arts & Humanities
• Supervisor's Name: Riches, Prof. John K.
• Date of Award: 1998
• Depositing User: Elaine Ballantyne
• Unique ID: glathesis:1998-1969
• Copyright: Copyright of this thesis is held by the author.
• Date Deposited: 24 Jun 2010
• Last Modified: 06 Feb 2014 14:12
• URI: https://theses.gla.ac.uk/id/eprint/1969