Matthew R. Schlimm

Dissertation

Title

From Fratricide to Forgiveness: The Ethics of Anger in Genesis

Available

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Committee

James L. Crenshaw, Old Testament (Major Area), Duke University, Chair

Ellen F. Davis, Old Testament (Major Area), Duke University

Anathea Portier-Young, Old Testament (Major Area), Duke University

J. Robert Cox, Rhetorical Studies (External Minor), University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Randy Maddox, Wesleyan Studies (Internal Minor), Duke University

Abstract

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This dissertation analyzes the motif of anger in Genesis. Though often ignored by modern interpreters, this emotion forms a prevalent theme throughout the book (e.g., Cain and Abel, Jacob and Esau, Joseph and his brothers). After reviewing the relevant literature (ch. 1), this dissertation provides a theoretical framework for analyzing emotion (ch. 2), conducts a careful linguistic analysis of the biblical language for anger (ch. 3), undertakes a close reading of Gen 4 while surveying the remainder of the book (ch. 4), and examines how this book’s message would have been received in the wake of the exile (ch. 5). Methodologically, this dissertation draws on the fields of philosophy, cognitive science, linguistics, anthropology, literary criticism, history, and ideological-rhetorical criticism.

Many of the dissertation’s findings relate to the ethical significance of anger. This emotion is closely tied to justice: it often arises in response to a perceived wrongdoing and frequently can lead to additional wrongdoings. The book of Genesis presents readers with a wide range of responses to anger, ranging from the fratricide found in the first post-Edenic episode (Gen 4:1-10) to the forgiveness found in the book’s penultimate episode (Gen 50:15-21). Drawing on biblical ethicists like John Barton, this dissertation shows how these diverse accounts of anger offer readers realistic possibilities for engaging anger amid human limitations, constraints, and frailty. This dissertation furthermore brings what Genesis says about anger into conversation with both classical philosophers (e.g., Seneca) and modern theorists (e.g., Martha Nussbaum). It thus builds on previous work while moving in new directions, making significant exegetical, theological, and theoretical advances.

Related Publication

“Emotions and Embodiment: The Motif of Anger in Genesis.” In Bodies, Embodiment and Theology of the Hebrew Bible [Working Title]. Edited by Tamar Kamionkowski and Wonil Kim. Library of the Hebrew Bible/Old Testament Studies. T & T Clark, Forthcoming.