Dr. Ilana Pardes, Professor of Comparative Literature, Hebrew University of Jerusalem
In-person attendance at Scheide Caldwell 209 (RSVP required). Lunch provided, until 12:00pm.
Abstract
“The account of the rise of Israelite kingship in the Book of Samuel is one of the greatest narratives of antiquity that has been passed down to us. Far from being a dry chronicle, it offers both an unblinking perspective on political realities and a daring representation of the humanness, the nakedness, of royal figures. The talk will revolve around the encounter of King David and the wise woman of Tekoa (2 Samuel 14). Special attention will be given to the dramas behind the scenes, to the hidden links between the parabolic tale of the wise woman and the story of the House of David.”