BIB 422 Survey of the Tanakh
This year-long course introduces core texts of the Tanakh, with particular focus on their language and literary artistry. It emphasizes close reading, building student toolkits for deepening engagement with these sacred texts moving forward. In the spring semester, we will study the Prophets and Writings. In the Prophets, we will focus on Isaiah, Amos, and Jonah. We will also discuss the history and interpretive power of the haftarah cycle. In the Writings, we will focus on the Megillot—Lamentations, Esther, and Ruth. Rooted, at least in part, in the experiences of exile and return in the Persian Period, these Megillot offer opportunities to connect with the breadth and complexity of human experience. The instructor will teach remotely; students will be in person.