The function of the Magnificat in its narrative setting: An affective analysis

Abstract

In analyzing conspicuous poetry placed in narrative contexts of the Old Testament, James Watts states that authors used the inset poetry to achieve certain distinguishable effects. Generally, inset poetry in the Bible does not have an impact on the narrative plot, so they likely have other purposes. Watts contends that inset poetry serves to "actualize" accompanying stories, interpreting them, and making them more real by involving the audience in the emotional components of the story. Using Watts's theory of actualization, this study will examine the Magnificat as inset poetry, demonstrating how the affective components function to actualize the preceding narrative (Luke 1:1-45).