Reading Luke in Southampton County

Abstract

This chapter examines Turner's affinity for biblical scripture. It first surveys Turner's account of himself and of what inspired him, with particular attention to his account's pattern of scriptural citation, in order to substantiate the claim that Turner indeed blended invocation of Revelation with a fondness for Luke. The chapter argues that, in fact, Turner based much of his understanding of himself and of the significance of his actions on Luke's account of the life and ministry of Christ. It also examines other possible influences on Turner's narrative of what inspired him. The chapter concludes by indicating how this examination of Turner's biblical exegesis might influence our perception of his narrative of the events leading up to August 1831.