Scribal Tendencies in the Fourth Gospel in Codex Alexandrinus

Abstract

This study seeks to gain an understanding about the scribal tendencies observed in the Fourth Gospel in Codex Alexandrinus using the method of isolating and classifying singular readings similar to what was first proposed by Colwell, and later modified by Royse and others. In addition to singular readings made before corrections, this study considers singular readings in relation to punctuation markers and line breaks. First, a brief introduction to Codex Alexandrinus is given. Second, the method used to undertake this study is set forth and explained. Third, each singular reading in the Fourth Gospel in Codex Alexandrinus is listed under each respective group in which it is classified, the text of the exemplar is reconstructed if possible and each singular reading is discussed. Finally, the resulting data are analyzed and conclusions are given regarding the tendencies of the scribe responsible for the Fourth Gospel in Codex Alexandrinus. In general, this thesis demonstrates that the strongest tendency of the scribe was that of omission; the scribe was reluctant to add or to harmonize. Harmonizations, when they do occur, are never corrected. Both punctuation and line breaks often afforded the opportunity for the scribe to become distracted and to commit error.