Assignment: Redaction Criticism

One of the learning objectives in this course is to become familiar with some of the methods used in biblical studies. One of those methods is redaction criticism. The goal of this assignment is to study the account of the resurrection of Jesus in the Synoptic Gospels (Matt 28:1-8; Mark 16:1-8; Luke 24:1-12) using redaction criticism.

The assignment will consist of two parts: 1) a redaction critical analysis of this passage using the provided synopsis (also available on Sakai; 5% of your final grade) and 2) the written report of your observations and analysis.

In the written report, you should:

1. Briefly introduce the task and structure of the paper (what texts you'll consider and outline of the paper).

2. Briefly describe the major similarities in the three accounts (what is the general plot on which all three Synoptic Gospels agree?).

3. Identify and state at least FIVE significant differences between the three accounts (you may wish to chart these differences before you begin writing). Be sure to describe each difference clearly and thoroughly:

a. What does Matthew say? What does Mark say? What does Luke say?

b. How are they different?

4. Most importantly, for THREE of the five significant differences identified in Step #2, provide an explanation on the basis of each gospel's style, structure, portrait of Jesus, and/or themes discussed in class. (Note: not every theme that we have discussed in class is found in every passage of a particular gospel.)

5. Conclude the paper with a brief summary of the preceding discussion.