The end. Absolute in its finality, the ending provides both a tantalizing and seductive topic for discussion. Attributable to this fact is the popularity of literary works that discuss humanity's resolve. Examples of so-called apocalyptic literature predate the Old Testament, however, the most controversial biblical example is John's Book of Revelation. The work is controversial because it is up to the subjective application of qualifying elements to determine the inclusion or exclusion of the Apocalypse from the apocalyptic genre. However, although “revelation” is a translation of the word “apocalypse,” this fact does not appear to be sufficient for Northrop Frye or David Chilton to classify the text as definitively apocalyptic. Chilton argues that Revelation represents such a significant divergence from previous apocalyptic works that it surpasses inclusion in the genre, while Frye perceived the final book as nothing more than a succinct conclusion to the biblical story. In this way, both fail to recognize a third option, that of Bernard McGinn, who instead suggests that The Book of Revelation represents an evolution of the apocalyptic genre. In his work Apocalypse in the Middle Ages, Bernard McGinn cites several important elements of early apocalyptic literature and discusses how they are or are not incorporated into the Apocalypse of John. In line with traditional apocalyptic texts, McGinn emphasizes the impending punishment of the wicked and the salvation of the righteous. This element derives from the trying state in which the authors of the time found themselves in recognizing “pessimism about the present aeon” and compensating for it by being “deeply optimistic about the aeon to come” (McGinn, 8). This can be seen in chapter sixteen of the Book of...... middle of paper ......g John's intent does little to address the question of the genre of the text and instead speculates on the motivation for the piece. While his argument may suggest that John did not intend the text to be apocalyptic, he fails to demonstrate how this intent would have affected the classification. Furthermore, the variation in key elements between The Book of Revelation and the earlier textual examples, which are the cause of Chilton's disapproval, are simply signs of the evolution of apocalypticism. However, it offers insight into the primary function of the text. That function is to encourage Christians to lead ethical lives in preparation for the rapture. In the end it is McGinn who seems to best summarize the genre of the text as a whole, stating that the Apocalypse of John does not represent the end. Instead, it symbolizes the beginning of a new era of apocalyptic literature.