Wiarda, Timothy. “Plot and Character in Galatians 1-2.” Tyndale Bulletin 55, no. 2 (January 1, 2004): 231-52.
“The preceding analysis of plot and characterisation leads to these principal results. (1) It supports the traditional view that the Galatians 1-2 narrative serves primarily to establish the credentials of Paul and his gospel. (2) It shows that these chapters also serve a strong paradigmatic purpose, however, thus lending partial support to the proposals of those recent scholars who argue that Paul’s autobiography functions as an example. The paradigmatic function nevertheless appears to be secondary. (3) Analysis of plot and characterisation helps to refine both the traditional view (by clarifying each episode’s distinct contribution to the defence of Paul’s gospel and authority) and the example view (by identifying the precise aspects of Paul’s life that are presented for imitation). (4) Analysis of plot structure and character portrayal offers little support to the view that Paul wishes to illustrate the gospel’s tradition-transcending or life-transforming nature.”