level of quotation

When a text contains quoted speech, and that quotation itself contains a quote this is a second “level of quotation”. If that quote in a quote itself contains a quotation it is a third level of quotation… I am also suggesting that such multiple levels of quotation suggests that the text is interested in or focuses on speech and/or messengers.

So in Amos 7:10-11:

10 Amaziah, priest of Bethel, sent to Jeroboam, King of Israel, saying:

Quotation formula

      "Amos has conspired against you in the heart of the house of Israel; the land is not able to support all his words.

 First level quotation

      11 For this is what Amos says:

 Quoted quotation formula

            `Jeroboam shall die by the sword, and Israel will surely go into exile from its land.'"

 Second level quotation

 

 

This page is part of the Hypertext Bible Commentary - Amos , if you have reached it as a standalone page, to view it in context, go to www.bible.gen.nz © Tim Bulkeley, 1996-2005, Tim Bulkeley. All rights reserved.