Biblical Narrative in the Philosophy of Paul Ricoeur A Study in Hermeneutics and Theology

A critical account of Ricoeur's theory of narrative interpretation and its contribution to theology.

Although Paul Ricoeur's writings are widely and appreciatively read by theologians, this book offers a full, sympathetic yet critical account of Ricoeur's theory of narrative interpretation and its contribution to theology. Unlike many previous studies of Ricoeur, Part I argues that Ricoeur's hermeneutics must be viewed in the light of his overall philosophical agenda, as a fusion and continuation of the unfinished projects of Kant and Heidegger. Particularly helpful is the focus on Ricoeur's recent narrative theory as the context in which Ricoeur deals with problems of time and the creative imagination; and it becomes clear that narrative stands at the crossroads of Ricoeur's search for the meaning of human being as well as his search for the meaning of texts. Part II examines the potential of Ricoeur's narrative theory for resolving certain theological problems, such as the dichotomy betweens the Jesus of history and the Christ of faith.

Preface; List of abbreviations; Introduction: 1. The passion for the possible: preface to Paul Ricoeur; Part I. The Passion for the Possible in Ricoeur's Philosophy and Hermeneutics: 2. Human being, possibility, and time; 3. Hope within the limits of Kant alone?; 4. Metaphor, poetry, and the possible; 5. Narrative: the 'substance' of things hoped for; Part II. The Passion for the Possible and Biblical Narrative: Stories or Histories of Jesus?: 6. A newer hermeneutic: postscript to Bultmann; 7. A literal Gospel?; 8. The Gospels as 'tales about time'; 9. Passion of Jesus, power of Christ: the possibility of human freedom; Conclusion: 10. The Bible and one philosopher; Select bibliography; Index.

This book offers a full, sympathetic yet critical account of Ricoeur's theory of narrative interpretation. Ricoeur's hermeneutics are viewed in the light of his overall philosophical agenda, and the potential of his narrative theory for resolving specific problems is assessed.