Narrative Overview of the Gospel of Mark
Primary Source:
This two-part podcast gives a narrative overview of the
entire book of Mark in just over an hour. The division into Mark 1-8 and 9-16
is common in narrative criticism, which often views the identity of Jesus as
the driving force of the narrative. Therefore the conversation between Jesus
and his disciples about the identity of Jesus (towards the end of Mark 8) is
seen as the fulcrum point in the book:
Podcast Supplement Worksheet:
After listening to the podcast, take the time to review the
key concepts with this worksheet.
Secondary Sources:
1) If you are new to narrative criticism in Biblical
studies, read this article by Dr. Robert M. Fowler (Professor
of Religion and Chairperson of the Department of Religion at Baldwin-Wallace
College in Berea, Ohio). He tells the story of how the narrative approach came
onto the biblical studies scene and its relation to historical and redactive
criticisms. A perfect start if all of these forms of criticism are new to you:
2) A short overview of the narrative approach to Mark can be
found in this eight minute clip with Dr. Joseph R. Dongell. He focuses on Mark
as a narrative where tension is held by the mystery for the characters
about who Jesus is (very similar to the primary source above). However he also
draws on Jesus’ title “Son of God” having political implications to ancient
readers. Dr. Dongell links this implication to Psalm 72—the role of king in
bringing about God’s blessing.
3) For a more in-depth look at the gospel of Mark that
incorporates the narrative of the gospel with insight into the Greek and the
ancient cultural context watch this video series from Yale Divinity School.
Professor Emeritus David L. Bartlett and Minister Allen R. Hilton discuss the
Gospel of Mark over eight videos (roughly fifteen minutes apiece).
4) If you want to compare the narratives
of all four gospels there is a wonderful book by Richard A. Burridge. Four Gospels One Jesus does a great job of examining each of the four
gospel authors through their ancient symbol (human face, lion, ox, and eagle).
Burridge distinctly explores each narrative and its portrayal of Jesus while
also looking for the Jesus who unifies these works. It is available in both
print and eBook:
http://www.amazon.com/Four-Gospels-One-Jesus-Symbolic/dp/0802829805
Conclusion Video
Composed by Jake Taylor
