2010-2011 Academic Catalog

Jul 30, 2025

2010-2011 Academic Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

JS 118 - Introduction to the Hebrew Bible II: Prophecy and Poetry

Type of Course: Lecture, Discussion

A close reading (in English) of the poetic portions of the Hebrew Bible, from Isaiah through the Writings. The prophetic revolution in Israel is evaluated: its roots, as well as its impact on its own society and later social and cultural criticism in the West. The artistry of biblical poetry is analyzed, along with the thematics of piety, despair, resignation and eroticism that are found in such books as the Psalms and the Song of Songs. Finally, books of a more philosophical bent (Ecclesiastes, Job), which question the earlier assumptions of biblical faith, are read. As in JS 117, emphasis is placed in the influence of the Bible on later thinking in the West.

Cross Listed: CMLT 118

Instructor: Mr. Fox

When Offered: Offered every year

Faculty: Everett Fox, Ph.D. - Allen M. Glick Chair in Judaic and Biblical Studies Director, Jewish Studies Program; Acting Director, Department of Foreign Languages and Literatures, Fall 08