Can Discourse Analysis Contribute to a Theology of Preaching: A Case Study of Four Senior Anglican Clergy

The work of the educationalist Paulo Freire recognizes the importance of relationship and participation in the process of learning. This thesis is an inquiry into the nature of preaching a sermon and the potential impact different modes of the delivery can make. It uses the work of Rose and Bourdieu to form a framework into which the development of relationship and participation can be placed. This thesis aims to break new ground by demonstrating the value of using Discourse Analysis as a powerful tool to be used in the preparation and delivering of sermons.<br/>The performances of sermons by four senior Anglican clergy are examined using different forms of discourse analysis. The main tool used here is James Paul Gee’s approach to linguistic analysis of narrative. The thesis examines the different methods and language presented in the case-study sermons and the similar strategies that are used in different ways to maintain authority whilst encouraging listeners to participate. It also takes into account the social nature of language. Not only are the texts scrutinized but also the performance. The ensuing discussion attempts to understand how each preacher uses poetic and rhetorical performance strategies and linguistic techniques to draw listeners into participation. It also considers if they overcome the tension between equality and authority in order to enable listeners to experience the mystery of God. This deliberation considers how preachers demonstrate their underlying purpose of preaching by comparing their strategy with Rose’s four categories of preaching. The culmination of the thesis is the recognition that homiletics would benefit from an understanding of discourse analysis and performance.

Name dc:type.qualificationname

Doctor of Theology and Ministry

Level dc:type.qualificationlevel

Doctoral Thesis

Grantor dc:publisher.institution

King's College London

Year dc:date.issued

2013

Author dc:creator

• Chapman, Ann Beatrice

Advisors dc:contributor.advisor

• Roberts, Celia Magdalen
• Barnes, Laurence Philip
• Bretherton, Luke Michael
• Ward, Peter

Language dc:language

eng

Identifier

oai:kclpure.kcl.ac.uk:studenttheses/a3ee58d2-7df1-4155-bb67-d33129d8d878

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:kclpure.kcl.ac.uk:studenttheses/a3ee58d2-7df1-4155-bb67-d33129d8d878