Hermann GunkelA well-rounded scholar does not achieve a holistic mindset through tunnel vision. Thanks to his natural curiosity about the Bible and adequate resources, Johannes Heinrich Hermann Gunkel was able to leave his mark on the field of biblical studies. Gunkel is best remembered for his seminal critique of the form. By incorporating form criticism into his work, he broke down Genesis and the Psalms into types and subtypes or more specifically genres. Gunkel ushered in a new era of Bible study by opening the door to new interpretations. He focused on sit im leben, which in English means taking place in real life. Using the sit im leben approach, founded by Sigmund Mowinckel, Gunkel moved closer to the oral tradition of the text that was his pursuit. The influence of the Holy Spirit, creation and chaos in the early era and Eschaton, Genesis, the folk tale of the Old Testament, the Psalms: a critical introduction to the form and finally an introduction to the Psalms which has was completed and published by Joachim Begrich. Joachim Begrich was one of Gunkel's students and completed Gunkel's work after his death. Finally, Gunkel was co-editor of Die Religion in Geschite Und Gegenwart, or in English The Religion Past and Present. He contributed one hundred and fifty-one articles to the second version. Religion Past and Present (RGG) is a religious enycyclopedia. Gunkel's resources came in the form of a Lutheran education, formal education, and communication with some of the great scholars. Gunkel was educated at the University of Halle, where he later became a professor. He later held professorships in Berlin and Giessen. But, throughout the year, Gunkel re...... middle of paper ......ual Thanksgiving, the writer lets you know why he gives thanks, followed by the situation, then ends with a vow or promise of offering. farewell. Community laments are written at times of community suffering, meaning widespread problems. Communal Lamentations always praised God in form. Finally, the Royal Psalms addressed events centered on kingship or monarchical structures. Some of these categories were liturgical in that they were designed for use in public worship. Toward the end, I think Hermann Gunkel was a lonely individual, but I find at least some comfort in knowing that he lived, breathed, and loved his field. None of his works individually changed the path of biblical studies, but collectively they represent something greater. The way he wrote them, the new perspective he pursued, and the way he wrote his works brought Herman Gunkel to prominence.;