Profs. Robert Alter & Ron Hendel—The Bible Now: Genesis (Zoom only)

Explore the book of Genesis: major themes, style, character, and authorship. Topics include: Origins, Ancestors, Jacob's Family, and Joseph and His Brothers. We will also consider Genesis within the broader context of ancient Near Eastern literature. The recommended translation is Robert Alter, Genesis: Translation and Commentary.

Session 1: Origins: Genesis Chapters 1-11

Session 2: Ancestors: Genesis 12-25

Session 3: Jacob's Family: Genesis 25-36

Session 4: Joseph and His Brothers: Genesis 37-50

Tuesdays, January 16, 23 and 30, February 6 @7–8:30pm, on Zoom

Selected bibliography on Genesis

Stephanie Dalley, Myths from Mesopotamia Michael D. Coogan, Stories from Ancient Canaan William K. Simpson, The Literature of Ancient Egypt Robert Alter, The Art of Biblical Narrative

Ronald Hendel, Genesis 1-11: A New Translation with Introduction and Commentary (out in 11/24)