Living by the Book/Living by the Book Workbook Set (133 page)

A
t this point, we’re shifting the emphasis from Observation to Interpretation. You’ll be looking at many similar aspects of the book of Ruth, but with more of an emphasis on understanding and making sense of what you’re reading rather than simply observing.

Let’s begin by considering how the book of Ruth would be classified in terms of literary genre. We would suggest that Ruth belongs to the biography and narrative categories. Now that you’ve read through the book several times, review the list on pages 113–114 and see if you agree.

As we approach this type of material, we need to ask the following questions. You will already have answered some of them. Focus on what is new, but also consider that additional thought on already studied material frequently provides new insights.

What is the plot? What movement is there in the story?

Who is the cast of characters? How are they presented? What roles do they play?

How do the characters relate to each other and to God? What progress or regress do they make? Do they fail?

In what ways are the characters individuals, and in what ways are they representative of others? What do you like or dislike about them? What would you do in their places?

What questions does this story raise? How do the characters deal with the unavoidable problems of life? What do they discover about God?