Abstract
Scholars have long discussed the characterization of the Roman governor, Pontius Pilate, in the Fourth Gospel. Historically, a majority of scholars have labeled him a “weak” governor, who ultimately bends to the wishes of the Jewish authorities. In recent years, some scholars have made compelling arguments that Pilate is actually a strong figure who gets what he wants while antagonizing the Jewish authorities in the process. The Roman governor is indeed a complex character in the Johannine narrative. Pilate is presented with significant strength, but is not without significant vulnerabilities. Yet the Johannine evangelist also employs the literary device of irony against the Roman governor, undercutting the presentation of a strong Pilate and subverting Roman imperial claims to authority and dominion.
Get full access to this article
View all access options for this article.