Q: Does anyone know of a reference that discusses the definition of the terms
"midrash" and "pesher", and perhaps compares them and their characteristics?
You might like to consult:
Halivni, David Weiss. Peshat and Derash: Plain and Applied Meaning in
Rabbinic Exegesis. Oxford: O.U.P, 1991.
Also, see the Anchor Bible Dictionary entry on Pesharim, Qumran -- and the
entry on Midrash includes section F: Midrash at Qumran
Maurice A. O'Sullivan [ Bray, Ireland ]
mauros AT iol.ie