Stories of Origins in the Bible and Ancient Mediterranean Literature

Guy Darshan explores the parallels between Biblical origin stories and ancient Greek genealogical writings, shedding new light on the history of literature and the interconnections between civilizations of the pre-Hellenistic eastern Mediterranean and Near East.

Format: Hardback
Length: 350 pages
Publication date: 07 December 2023
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

In his captivating book, Guy Darshan delves into the rich tapestry of stories that lie at the very core of Pentateuchal sources, situated within the vibrant societies of the ancient Mediterranean world. Conducting a comprehensive comparative analysis, this volume explores the striking parallels between Biblical origin stories, the narrative traditions meticulously arranged in genealogical sequence, recounting the beginnings of humanity and the origins of various peoples. Alongside this, Darshan examines ancient Greek genealogical writings from the 7th to 5th centuries BCE, shedding light on the intricate connections between these two realms. Furthermore, he delves into Phoenician and Anatolian sources from the first millennium, several of which have recently been published, providing a fresh perspective on the origins of this genre of narrative. This groundbreaking scholarly study stands as the first to trace the origins of this captivating genre and the circumstances that gave rise to its appearances in the Hebrew Bible and ancient Mediterranean literature. As it unfolds, it unveils a wealth of new insights, enriching our understanding of the history of literature and the intricate interconnections and interrelationships between the civilizations of the pre-Hellenistic eastern Mediterranean and Near East. Prepare to embark on a captivating journey through time, as Guy Darshan unveils the fascinating origins behind these narratives and unveils the rich tapestry of the ancient Mediterranean world.

ISBN-13: 9781009344487