Visualising Paul’s Appeal: A Performance Critical Analysis of the Letter to Philemon

Scholars have long noted the passionate rhetoric that Paul employs in his letter to Philemon. In appealing for mercy for the slave, Paul pulls all the stops as he attempts to change the mind of a wronged slave owner and secure Onesimus’ safe return and reconciliation with Philemon. Previous studies have demonstrated the manner in which Paul’s language would pull at the heart strings of Philemon, and through emotional appeal, attempt to move Philemon to a favourable decision. Yet, few if any of these studies have paid close attention to the occasion of the first reading of the letter—what actually took place when this letter was delivered to, not only Philemon, but the Christian community gathered in his house? How was it performed by the lector, whose task it was to animate Paul’s request? What was the atmosphere like in the room where Philemon was now face to face with the slave seeking mercy and the rest of the community looking on at this response? This article will analyse the letter of Philemon through the lens of Performance Criticism. It will seek to recreate its first reading/hearing and highlight the rhetorical elements that can only be fully appreciated when one considers them in a performance setting.