The Classification of Rewritten Scripture: A Plea for Retaining the Emic Perspective

Abstract

AbstractThe most recent discussions concerned with Rewritten Scripture compositions have been dominated by different views on whether or not it is plausible to subsume such texts within a single genre. While some scholars are convinced that we can only talk of a literary strategy, others hold that genre classification is applicable. Anders Klostergaard Petersen recently introduced the distinction between emic and etic perspectives into the debate, while denying plausibility of the former when Rewritten Scripture compositions are considered in terms of genre. The present article attempts to argue that the emic perspective can plausibly be applied in the case of Rewritten Scripture studies, representing a useful heuristic device.