Description
Book SynopsisTrade ReviewAlan F. Segal's approach to myth is very illuminating for the 'The Worst, Most Awful Stories of the Bible.' To see how these stories reflect (and attempt to resolve) contradictions-moral, social, and gender-is salutary and fresh. Segal was one of our finest thinkers about the legacy of ancient Judaism for modern thought. This book, his last contribution, is wise and moving. -- Ronald Hendel, University of California, Berkeley ...a book rich in information for intelligent nonspecialists, written in an accessible style that doesn't scrimp on complicated or challenging matters. Publishers Weekly His book's greatest value lies in forcing contemporary readers to grapple with biblical stories that some would prefer to ignore. -- Michael Carasik H-Judaic insightful, lucid observations Choice Professor Segal's writing is easily accessible and can be read as a modern commentary to the Bible providing us with new insights for thought and interpretation. -- Barbara Andrews Jewish Book Council Online A gracefully written introduction to the narrative contents of the Hebrew Bible... A clear, engaging, yet slightly offbeat survey of our knowledge of Israelite history and literature since the work of Albrecht Alt, Martin Noth and William Foxwell Albright. Biblical Archaeology Review
Table of ContentsIntroduction: The Bible and Myth 1. The Matriarch in Peril 2. The Golden Calf: A Lesson in Chronology 3. A Historical Tragedy: The Short-lived Deuteronomic Reform 4. The Concubine of the Levite: A Complete Horror 5. The Horror of Human Sacrifice: Sex, Intermarriage, and Proper Descent 6. Ways of a Man with a Woman 7. No Peace in the Royal Family Conclusion: Synoptic Sinning Notes Index
