In The Mary Magdalene Tradition, Holly Hearon offers an understanding of the early Church, the role of women in the Church, and the power of narrative to shape community understanding and practice. By examining the rhetorical function of the post-resurrection appearance to Mary Magdalene traditions in early Christian communities, Hearon draws connections between these ancient communities and the life of the Church today. Beginning with a reconstruction of the practice of storytelling in the world of antiquity, Hearon situates the Magdalene narratives in this oral, storytelling environment. Focusing on the fluid nature of storytelling, Hearon explores how the traditions were used to further arguments by storytellers with respect to women's leadership in Christian communities. Particular attention is given to the Gospels of Matthew and John, highlighting the relationship of the Gospel narratives to specific historical circumstances facing the early Church. Chapters are "Storytelling in the World of Antiquity," "Origins of the Post-Resurrection Appearance to Mary Magdalene Tradition," "The Function of the Mary Magdalene Tradition in Oral Storytelling Circles," "Storytelling Strategies in Matthew: The Function of the Mary Magdalene Tradition In Its Literary Context," "The Mary Magdalene Tradition and Matthean Communities: The Function of the Tradition in Response to Historical Circumstances," "Storytelling Strategies in John: The Function of the Mary Magdalene Tradition In Its Literary Context," "The Mary Magdalene Tradition and Johannine Communities: The Function of the Tradition in Response to Historical Circumstances," "Epilogue: A Consideration of Storytelling in Relation To OurUnderstanding of Communities in the Past and the Shaping of Communities for the Future."