Synopses & Reviews
This study combines an analysis of the argumentative complexities of Romans 1-8 with the presentation of modern theories of how meaning arises and functions. These theories (especially as represented by Umberto Eco) shed important light on two central questions raised by Paul's method: why does he reason so persistently about matters that depend ultimately on supernatural enlightenment, and why, where he does, are his arguments often so unclear and so hard to reduce to logical consistency? This book seeks to answer both questions.
Review
"Moores has produced a book which is both practical and erudite....Readers of this work will find themselves seeking to analyze the logic of New Testament letters more precisely and meaningfully. Developing that trait is a refreshing outcome of the study of this book.' Thomas Lea, Southwestern Journal of Theology"The marvelous aspect of this book is a concise analysis of rhetorical theory, logic, and semiotics by a truly synthetic mind." Steven Boguslawski, Religious Studies Review
Synopsis
John D. Moores engages with the most significant riddles displayed in the complex argumentation of Romans 1-8. Viewing Paul as he does against the background of semiology (especially the theory of Umberto Eco), his discussion combines literary theory and classical logic to put an entirely new complexion on Paul's rationality.
Description
Includes bibliographical references (p. 193-205) and indexes.
Table of Contents
Acknowledgements; Introduction; 1. Enthymematic semiosis in Paul; 2. Varieties of enthymematic effect in Romans 1-4; 3. Ways in which enthymemes arise in Romans 5-7; 4. How enthymematic argument stands in Romans 8; 5. Knowing what tune Paul is playing; Conclusion; Bibliography; Index of names; Index of technical terms.