Reader Response To Ritual Elements in Mark 5:1-20

Abstract

Combining rhetorical and reader response criticism with methods of biblical interpretation and models from ritual studies can yield insights into the potential reader impact of a gospel narrative. To achieve such a methodological synthesis, this study of Mark 5:1-20 examines the literary context for the Gerasene demoniac story within Mark 1-5, the gradual release of information to the implied audience, challenges to audience expectations, and the probable effect of textual ritual elements, for example, description of ritual enactments or inclusion of ritual-like actions such as journeying. This analysis demonstrates how the text guides audiences toward the episode's eschatological significance, challenges readers' attitudes toward "clean" and "unclean," and invites them to accept for themselves the commissioning Jesus extends to the healed demoniac.

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