Course Description :

The Bible is not just a book, but a living document, the understanding of which has continued to evolve during the past 3500 years.  This course will examine the process by which the traditions and texts of the TaNaKh were compiled, culled and canonized into a unified work, then transmitted and translated. We will examine the attitude toward and appropriation of the Hebrew Scriptures in Christianity and Islam, and explore the many ways in which archaeology has served various agendas by confirming and/or challenging biblical accounts and assertions. We’ll discuss the role of Bible in both Zionist thought and in American politics and popular culture.

Schedule of Topics:

Week 1: In the Beginning: the Birth of the Bible

Week 2: Canonizing the TaNaKh:  From Tradition to Text

Week 3:  Tropes, Translations and Commentaries:  Why They Matter

Week 4: The Bible as Law: Literalism vs Liberalism

Week 5:  The Hebrew Bible in Christianity and Islam

Week 6: Digging It: Archeology and the Bible

Week 7: The Bible as Zionist Manifesto

Week 8: The Bible in American Political Culture

Week 9: From Scripture to Script: The Bible Goes to the Movies

Week 10: Rereading the Bible with 21st Century Eyes: Morals and Mores; Rituals and Role Models