The
Gospel According to Mark (,
to kata Markon euangelion), the second book of the
New Testament, is one of the four
canonical gospels and the three
synoptic gospels. It was traditionally thought to be an epitome (summary) of
Matthew, which accounts for its place as the second gospel in the
Bible, but most scholars now regard it as the earliest of the
gospels. Most modern scholars reject the tradition which ascribes it to
Mark the Evangelist, the companion of
Peter, and regard it as the work of an unknown author working with various sources including collections of miracle stories, controversy stories, parables, and a passion narrative.