This paper presents a linearized solution for the AC magnetic susceptibility equations of ceramic superconductors, here interpreted as an approximation to the exact equations based on the actual nonlinear E - J behaviour. The method not only provides solutions for the AC susceptibility equations in analytical form but also yields an approximation to the true E - J resistive behaviour of the sample. A detailed comparison between AC susceptibility and magnetoresistivity data is made, which leads to a clearer understanding about the meaning of the parameters in the Bean model description of the electromagnetic properties of ceramic superconductors.