Synopsis:
This study establishes a concept of culture and then combines it with Geertz' anthropological concept of thick description. Subsequently, the relation of texts to society and culture is discussed. In this manner, multiple methods of interpretation are used in an organized and programmatic way, allowing the reader insights into the development of early Christianity. In this study, Vernon Robbins expounds and develops his system of socio-rhetorical criticism, bringing together social-scientific and literary-critical approaches to explore early Christanity. This book investigates Christianity as a cultural phenomenon, and treats its canonical texts as ideological constructs.
Review:
"This body of work shows the rift between conservative and radical readings that has opened, with great publicity, in the controversy over the Jesus Project. Like many books...this one becomes more interesting as it leaves theory behind."
-"Christianity and Literature
"Pay attention to this volume; it is a stimulating, thoughtful, and fascinating read
."
-"Religious Studies Review
"challenging and enlightening ... the most in-depth and systematic discussion to date of the method of Biblical interpretation known as socio-rhetorical criticism."
-"Seminary Studies
"Robbins has provided for the reader ... the fruits of a decade of methodological reflection, which should be read and welcomed by all interpreters of scripture."
-"Ashland Theological Journal
"Robbins offers us a new language and metaphor for the enterprise of interpretation... The result is a handbook on critical theory that can be usedprofitably by advanced students and professors. ...Robins has led us to take a tremendously important step toward a comprehensive approach to interpretation. I applaud Robbins's work as a significant methodological advance beause it defines the potential for complementary relationships between approaches to interpretation that have developed largely in isolation and sometimes in antagonism to one another."
-R. Alan Culpepper, McAfee school of Theology, Mercer University, "Teaching Theology & Religion
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