Mary Magdalene in the Synoptic Gospel Narratives

Abstract Mary Magdalene appears in all three Synoptic Gospels as a witness to the final events of the gospel narratives, including the crucifixion, burial, tomb, and resurrection of Jesus. The chapter explores her characterization in the Gospels of Mark, Matthew, and Luke as well as scholarly treatments of her in these texts. This exploration reveals that in Mark, Mary Magdalene serves to make a connection to the Gospel’s audience. Scholars of Matthew suggest that portrayals of Mary Magdalene differ from Mark’s, though there is no clear consensus for defining this difference. Luke’s depiction further marginalizes Mary Magdalene compared to Mark and Matthew. The chapter concludes by suggesting future directions for research on Mary Magdalene within and beyond the Synoptic Gospels, including opportunities for further examination of how she serves as a bridge character who helps to connect the events of the gospel narratives to the lives of the gospels’ audiences.