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The present essay examines seven aspects of the Gospel of John’s distinctive literary style which readers encounter often: solemn speech, ambiguous language, misunderstanding, irony, bridge verses, inclusions, and explanatory notes. One passage in which these stylistic features are especially prevalent is John 4:1-42. An analysis of how these techniques are employed together within the Johannine Samaria narrative shows that their purpose is not simply as a display of artistry. On the contrary, their function - both individually and collectively - is very much at the service of the Fourth Gospel’s literary and theological priorities. As literary devices, they contribute to the construction of meaning and serve as interpretive guideposts for the reader, while also shedding light on certain aspects of the composition process.
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