Narrative Material Selection and its Performative Role in Judith 8–16: A Study of Focalisation

Risimati Hobyane

doi:10.25159/2663-6573/19789

Authors

Risimati Hobyane Northwest University https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6597-8243

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.25159/2663-6573/19789

Keywords:

Focalisation, Judith, performative, narrative analysis, characterisation

Abstract

Research on the book of Judith (henceforth Judith) has frequently highlighted the structure of the narrative’s second part, traditionally referred to as Part II, noting in particular the dominance and brilliance of the main character, Judith. While numerous studies have addressed characterisation in this story, this article argues that the focalisation of Judith is not rhetorically or performatively neutral and warrants closer scholarly investigation. Accordingly, the article explores the nature and potential function of focalisation—that is, the narrator’s selection and presentation of narrative information about the characters—in Judith, focusing especially on chapters 8 to 16. The study suggests that the focalisation in Judith reflects a persuasive narrative strategy, possibly intended to encourage new forms of performance or to promote a specific religious ideological orientation in the life of the reader.

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