Tracing a Literary Structure in the Book of Revelation

Abstract:There is no consensus concerning the literary structure of Rev 1:1–22:21. Arguing that Revelation is a document not primarily about the eschaton but about the perennial saving effects of the death and resurrection of Jesus, this study suggests that it is enclosed by a prologue (1:1–8) and an epilogue (22:6–21). The structure of the first half of the document depends on the seven letters, seals, and trumpets (Rev 1:9–11:19). The second half (12:1–22:5) is shaped by three narratives (12:1–14:20) that prepare for John's final "seven," the description of Harmagedon (15:1–16:21). Three further narratives (17:1–22:5) indicate the consequences of that event.