The characterization of Disciples in Acts: genre, method, and quality

Adams, S. A. (2016) The characterization of Disciples in Acts: genre, method, and quality. In: Dicken, F. E. and Snyder, J. A. (eds.) Characters and Characterization in Luke-Acts. Series: The library of New Testament studies (548). Bloomsbury: London, pp. 155-168. ISBN 9780567663924

Abstract

In this essay I will investigate the relationship between genre and characterization, comparing Luke’s depiction of Peter and Paul as Jesus’ disciples in Acts with the ways in which followers of important figures are portrayed in ancient Greco-Roman histories and biographies. I will argue that Luke’s presentation of Peter and Paul is closer in method and type to characterizations of similar figures in Greco-Roman philosophical collected biographies than in histories and biographies of generals and/or political leaders. An important determiner in coming to this conclusion is identifying the function of the work. Just as the selection of genre is closely tied to the author’s rationale for writing, characterization is intricately associated with the plot and purpose(s) of the text.

• Item Type: Book Sections
• Status: Published
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Adams, Professor Sean
• Authors: Adams, S. A.
• College/School: College of Arts > School of Critical Studies > Theology and Religious Studies
• Publisher: Bloomsbury
• ISBN: 9780567663924