not necessarily funny or satirical. When literary scholars say a plot is “comic,” they mean the story has a pleasant, or happy, ending. All may seem negative in the middle of the story, but any problems are resolved by the plot’s end. David’s rise to Israel’s throne despite Saul’s hatred (1 Sm 16–2 Sm 4) represents a comic plot. Realizing whether a plot is comic or tragic is vital to understanding Old Testament stories. Themes Locating themes in literature helps the reader understand the purpose
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