P0177 - Anankastic traits in the Gospels – Martha, sister of Mary and Lazarus

Abstract

In the gospels of Luke and John are mentioned the siblings Martha, Mary and Lazarus. Martha's character is complex. She is portrayed as a good hostess and a faithful believer. In the scenes of Jesus reception in Martha's house in Bethany, and Lazarus death and resurrection, she shows a pattern of rigidity and inflexibility which constrains her social attitude. As Jesus said to her, “Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things” (Luke 10:41 KJV). Martha seeks orderliness and perfectionism giving anxious responses in the interpersonal situations described. The author makes some theoretical considerations about the theme and presents the trait obsessionality in this verisimilar character portrayal.