Rewriting Masculinity Markan Soteriology and the Performative Subversion of Roman Gender Order

Abstract

This article interprets the Gospel of Mark as a narrative process of redefining masculinity – from the prologue (Mk 1:1–3) to the open ending (Mk 16:8). Drawing on Genette’s narratology and Butler’s concept of performativity, the article demonstrates how the opening of the Gospel detaches the key terms ἀρχή, εὐαγγέλιον and υἱός θεοῦ from the context of Roman imperial propaganda and imbues them with new meaning through Jewish-prophetic semantics. This redefinition is illustrated by way of example on three key passages: the anointing at Bethany, the centurion’s confession in front of the crucified, and the empty tomb. In this context, the narrative transformation of masculinity proves to be the site where soteriology is enacted. Salvation unfolds within the dynamics of the text itself – as an invitation that can be accepted.