Synopses & Reviews
This study shows how classical Greek and Hellenistic philosophical and ethical traditions inform Paul's Letter to the Romans. It concentrates especially on Protreptic, a kind of literature deriving its name from the title of a lost writing of Aristotle that has been largely reconstructed by scholars in our time. The Protreptic writers seek to awaken their readers to a realization of human frailty and then to commit themselves to a new way of life. Guerra shows also how the political conditions of Nero's Rome are reflected herein.
Review
"...a lucid and insightful discussion of the implications of reading Romans as a proteptic letter and for showing us where futher research is needed." The Catholic Biblical Quarterly"...makes a valuable contribution to the discussion of the literary genre of Romans and can be recommended to anyone interested in a serious study of Romans." Thomas H. Tobin, Anglican Theological Review"Guerra's well-supported thesis will have significant impact on future studies of this epistle." Kirk Summers, Religious Studies Review"This book breaks new ground and invites further investigation." Choice
Description
Includes bibliographical references (p. 182-190) and indexes.
Table of Contents
Preface; List of abbreviations; 1. Apologetic and audience: making the message meet; 2. Apologetic motifs in Romans 1.18 3.31; 3. Romans 4: the continuation of apologetic argumentation; 4. Paul recommends and defends the gospel of God; 5. Romans 9 11: Paul defends his mission to the Gentiles for the sake of the Jews; 6. Romans 12 13 and 16: the âRoman factorâ; 7. Summary and conclusion; Appendix; Glossary; Select Bibliography; Indexes.