Agape, Eros, Gender

Issues of gender and sexuality have recently come to the fore in all humanities disciplines, and this book reflects this broad interdisciplinary situation. It focuses on issues of gender and sexuality (eros) in the light of the comprehensive divine-human love (agape) which, for the New Testament, lies at the heart of Christian faith and practice. The intention is to outline a distinctively Christian understanding of the male/female relationship reflecting the priority of agape over eros. Key Pauline texts are read alongside modern texts by Virginia Woolf, Freud and Irigaray.

Brings biblical texts into dialogue with contemporary discourse on gender and sexuality
Offers biblical interpretation within broad theological and intellectual horizons
Of interest within theology, biblical studies, and the humanities more generally

Reviews & endorsements

"The scope of this book is breathtaking...I nevertheless found the book provocative and profound as a theological argument. It goes against the grain of much contemporary perspective-all the more reason to read and ponder it." Robin Scroggs, Emeritus, Union Theological Seminary

"[Watson's] discussion of the language of sex provides intriguing views that illuminate the principles guiding his perception of the Pauline ethos." The Boston Review

"...this learned effort well deserves a place next to Frances Yates and other great scholars of Renaissance thought." Choice

"...is most appropriate for academic and theological libraries with holdings in biblical interpretation, Christian ethics, and feminist studies." Choice

"The book is a remarkable interdisciplinary discussion. The exegesis is a times striking..." --Theology Today

"Watson suggests interesting avenues for theological reflection and should be consulted by those desiring a fresh and theologically oriented look at issues of sexuality and gender." Jrnl of the Evangelical Theological Society

"This book offers an argument that both broadens the scope of biblical studies and ignites lively debate." Interpretation

"The resulting originality is the book's most significant limitation. Throughout, Watson's own engaging (though arguable) conclusions dominate the voices of both his modern and ancient authors." Religious Studies Review

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