Oral Transmission and the Dream Narratives of Matthew 1-2: An Exploration of Matthean Culture Using Memory Techniques - Paperback

by Alistair N. Shaw (Author)

The first Gospel has traditionally been considered a very Jewish work. Recent scholarship has suggested some Hellenistic influence. The issue is explored in this work with attention focused on the dream narratives of the first two chapters. An investigation is carried out using a new methodology. The memory techniques used in an oral or semi-literate society are explored. A search is made for such techniques in Matthew and these are then compared with similar devices in a wide range of literature, Old Testament, contemporary Jewish, Greek and Roman. The intention is that literary practice should help to clarify the cultural setting in which Matthew functions. This is a work which will interest New Testament scholars with a focus on Gospel studies and oral transmission. It may also appeal to some classical scholars or those with a specialized interest in Josephus.

Author Biography

Alistair N. Shaw is a Church of Scotland Minister; he currently serves the congregation of St. Paul's Church in Johnstone, Renfrewshire, having previously worked with congregations in Irvine, Kilmarnock, and Glasgow. He studied at the University of Glasgow from where he graduated in Classical Greek and Philosophy, followed by a degree in Old Testament and New Testament Studies. His doctorate is from the University of Glasgow.