The literary structure of Genesis is built on the frequently recurring phrase "the history/genealogy of" and is the basis for the following outline.
The Creation of Heaven and Earth (1:1–2:3) and then The Generations of the Heavens and the Earth (2:4–4:26)
The Generations of Adam (5:1–6:8)
The Generations of Noah (6:9–9:29)
The Generations of Shem, Ham, and Japheth (10:1–11:9)
The Generations of Shem: Genealogy of Shem to Terah (11:10–26)
The Generations of Terah (11:27–25:11)
The Generations of Ishmael (25:12–18)
The Generations of Isaac (25:19–35:29)
The Generations of Esau (36:1–37:1)
The Generations of Jacob (37:2–50:26)
Dr. Griffith-Thomas in his excellent book Methods of Bible Study suggests that the OT is a book of:
(1) unfulfilled prophecies,
(2) unexplained ceremonies, and
(3) unsatisfied longings.
In the NT we have the fulfillment of these prophecies, the explanation of these ceremonies, and the satisfying of these longings; and, of course, all of this was accomplished through the birth, life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.[1]
One final theme of both theological and historical significance sets Genesis apart from other books of Scripture, in that the first book of Scripture corresponds closely with the final book. In the book of Revelation, the paradise which was lost in Genesis will be regained. The apostle John clearly presented the events recorded in his book as future resolutions to the problems which began as a result of the curse in Gen. 3. His focus is upon the effects of the Fall in the undoing of creation and the manner in which God rids His creation of the curse effect. In John's own words,