One of the main challenges faced by theologians looking to analyze Marguerite’s Heptameron stems from its genre. Even when assessed alongside her more explicit theological works such as her devotional writing, Heptameron stands alone as a “secular novella collection.”

In addition to establishing her method of reading Scripture, Marguerite also uses the Heptameron to expound upon her understanding of three main exegetical principles for reading Scripture. Namely, using Scripture to interpret Scripture, the priesthood of all believers, languages, and discernment.  

This first key aspect of Marguerite’s doctrine of Scripture, that of Scripture as a medicine is particularly important to understand as it situates Marguerite within the breadth of Christian tradition.

The next component of Marguerite’s view of Scripture, that of Scripture as a spiritual nourishment is perhaps the most familiar understanding of Marguerite’s approach to Scripture.