Paul’s Letters Reheard: A Performance-Critical Examination of the Preparation, Transportation, and Delivery of Paul’s Correspondence

Abstract

Pauline studies have, not surprisingly, largely concentrated on Paul as letter writer and on the impact of his rhetoric on his communities. In this study, I direct attention to the significant role of Paul’s letter carriers, who not only transported the papyrus copies of his letters to the churches but also were responsible for the presentation of Paul’s message to the letter recipients. Employing performance criticism informed by ancient writings on rhetoric and persuasion, one discerns a portrait of Paul’s couriers as individuals whose passionate and adaptable performances of Paul’s messages to his churches were instrumental in Paul’s success or failure as letter writer.