‘Unhiding’ female characters in the parables of Luke: A case for an unhiding reading

This dissertation critically examines the presence and agency of female characters in three parables of Luke—namely, the Prodigal Son, the Friend at Midnight, and the Good Samaritan—despite their apparent absence in the narrative texts, aiming to develop a new reading approach: an unhiding reading. Following a thorough methodological section and an initial exploration of first-century societal values, thoughts, and beliefs surrounding women, the study delves into the concept of ‘unhiding’ and the role of imagination in parable exegesis. Drawing upon the framework of women’s history, the dissertation emphasises the importance of acknowledging the potential presence of ‘hidden’ female characters. Utilising social-scientific criticism and a realistic reading applied through a feminist lens, the analysis reveals how social and cultural realities implicitly invite the hearer to recognise and imagine the presence and contributions of women, even when they remain unnamed. The study employs a multifaceted approach to ‘unhide’ women’s voices, bodies, roles, and lives, enriching the understanding of the parables’ messages and their implications for early Christian communities and contemporary theological discourse. This innovative approach challenges traditional interpretations by insisting on identifying women in parables as present and important even if not explicitly mentioned, thereby offering new ways of reading and understanding the parables. The concept of ‘unhiding’ serves, not as a term, but as an analytical tool, making a significant contribution to biblical scholarship. This methodology offers a fresh perspective that challenges the text’s attempt to render female characters invisible and hidden, encouraging historical inquiries to address literary issues, and ultimately contributing to a more inclusive interpretation of Christian origins and biblical texts.