Die Jobdrama : ‛n narratologiese ondersoek van die boek Job

Abstract

This Thesis is in Afrikaans: This study investigates and develops a Biblical narrative theory and methodology. The theory and methodology are then applied to the Book of Job. Thus the study has a twofold aim: firstly it is an investigation into the theory of narratology with specific emphasis upon Biblical narratives; secondly it is an application of the theory to the Book of Job. The hypothesis for the study is that the narrative method can provide answers to many of the questions raised during Joban research. The purpose is not to prove all previous research wrong, rather it wants to be an alternative voice in the scholarly conversation over Job. The basic presupposition of the study is that the Book of Job can be read as a drama. In the application of the theory attention is firstly paid to the events in and the plot of the book. Then the role of characters, characterization, time, and space are discussed. Lastly focalization and the role of the narrator receive attention. This study appreciates the Book of Job as an excellent narrative literary work of art. The study succeeds in applying narrative theory to the Book of Job and in the process sheds some new light on old problems raised in the book’s history of research.</P