Part 1

This introductory course explores the physical environment of the world of ancient Israel and early Judaism using both literary and archaeological evidence. Particular attention is paid to the religious worldview of the ancient Israelites and their neighbours in the land of Palestine and in Babylonia, Persia, Egypt and the Hellenistic world. The literature of the Israelites (primarily the Bible, the Pentateuch and the Deuteronomistic history) is examined within this wider context. Part 1 of this course can be taken without part 2 and is suitable for those with no prior knowledge.

Part 2

In the first six weeks inscriptions and other material evidence from the environment of ancient Israel which may help to elucidate the world of the biblical texts are examined. For example, the Mesha inscription from the ancient kingdom of Moab is examined and compared to the biblical account of wars with Moab in the book of Judges. Also explored is the importance of writing in ancient Israel and in the ancient Near Eastern world of Israel’s neighbours. How important were written records? Were the identities and self-understandings of the ancient societies more deeply rooted in oral tradition and if so how can we begin to explore their religions and cultures? The second part of the course looks at the emergence of the Jesus movement within the Jewish world of first century Palestine. Topics covered include Jesus and Jewish tradition, Jesus and Torah, Jesus and the Temple and Jesus and first century Jewish sects. Part 2 of this course can be taken without part 1 and is suitable for those with no prior knowledge.

Lecturer

Professor Anne FitzPatrick

How to apply

Applications can be made in person on Thursday, 19 September 2013, 4 p.m. - 7 p.m. in the Department of Near and Middle Eastern Studies, room 5042, level 5 of the Arts Building, Trinity College, Dublin 2 or by post before 19 September 2013.

Fee

Part 1 €150

Part 2 €150

Both parts €259

For security reasons payment should be by cheque/draft/postal money order only, made payable to Trinity College no. 1 account. A concession rate is available to second and third level students, unemployed persons and those in receipt of a social welfare pension. Those paying in two instalments must make the second payment no later than Friday, 10 January 2014.

Date

Teaching in the first semester commences during the week beginning 23 September 2013 and in the second semester during the week beginning 13 January 2014. Please note this is a day-time course.

Duration

The course runs for a total of twenty-two weeks in two parts. Part 1 runs through the first semester; part 2 runs through the second semester.

Further information