The Use Of The Epithet In The Characterization Of Joshua -- By: G. C. Chirichigno

Journal: Trinity Journal
Volume: TRINJ 08:1 (Spring 1987)
Article: The Use Of The Epithet In The Characterization Of Joshua
Author: G. C. Chirichigno


The Use Of The Epithet
In The Characterization Of Joshua

G. C. Chirichigno

Cheltenham, England

The way in which the Bible introduces and develops characters, particularly in the OT, has become one of the major focal points in the study of biblical narrative. Recently, Berlin1 and Sternberg2 have contributed significantly to the study of characterization in biblical narrative. The epithet, which is one of the more lesser known techniques of biblical characterization, is discussed briefly by Berlin and at length by Sternberg. In the following discussion we will briefly introduce some of the techniques of characterization which are discussed by Berlin and Sternberg, paying particular attention to the use of the epithet, and then we will examine the use of the epithet in the characterization of Joshua.

I. Introduction To Characterization

Both Berlin and Sternberg note that there are different types of characters portrayed in the OT.3 There are two types which are used consistently in literary criticism: Flat and Round. Berlin defines them as follows: “Flat characters… are built around a single quality or trait. They do not stand out as individuals. Round characters, on the other hand, are much more complex, manifesting a multitude of traits, and appearing as ‘real people.’“4 Generally, biblical characters can be grouped into these two types or categories: e.g. Pharoah’s daughter in Exod 2:5–10 is a “flat” character, while Moses, who is found in Exodus-Deuteronomy, is a” round” character.5

As one reads a pericope or a book in the OT, a character’s portrait is gradually revealed according to the intentions of the narrator or author.6 However, there are a great number of ways in which the narrator in the OT

portrays his characters. Berlin writes that the techniques found in the Hebrew Bible for developing a character are similar to those found in non-biblical literature. These techniques include: (1) Description; (2) Inner Life; (3) Speech and Action; (4) Contrast.7

Briefly, description of a character usually comes from the point of view of the narrator but may also come from the point of view of another character(s), although even this is controlled by the narrator. The type of information related...

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