(For Distribution in the Philippines Only)
Barbara Green, O.P., Editor
Interfaces is a curriculum adventure and a creative opportunity in teaching and learning. Each volume focuses on a biblical character or a pair of them. The characters are in some cases powerful and familiar, though in other cases they are minor and little-known. Each author uses one or more study methods to examine how a character interfaces with his or her historical-cultural world and other characters. In the process you will learn how to read the Bible with critical insight.
College undergraduate professors and students will find that these books allow concentrated and thorough study of the Bible and biblical characters. The volumes teach students how to make connections through analysis and synthesis of biblical characters and their worlds. Each volume goes beyond its own era to ask relevant questions of ours.
From Earth’s
Creation to John’s Revelation
The
Interfaces Biblical Storyline Companion
Barbara Green, O.P.,
Carleen Mandolfo, Catherine M. Murphy
Book Paper, 80 pp., 6
x 9
Price: $ 7.95
As an introductory text and companion for the Interfaces series, From Earth’s Creation to John’s Revelation gives an overview of the basic material necessary for an introductory undergraduate course in Old or New Testament. It helps readers locate the biblical characters within the biblical timeline and introduces the characters in ways that students of the Bible will find informative and vital. It is organized chronologically and includes maps for further study.
Chapters are “Origins Stories (Set Pre-1000 B.C.E.),” “(Re-)Settlement in the Land (Set Pre-1000 B.C.E.),” “The Monarchic Period (Just Pre-1000–587 B.C.E.),” “Exile: Exilic-Diaspora Setting (Sixth Century B.C.E.),” “Post-Exilic Early Second Temple Persian Judah: Persian Period (Sixth–Fourth Centuries B.C.E.),” “Late Second-Temple Judaism: Hellenistic Period (Second–First Centuries B.C.E.),” “Intertestamental Period (The First Centuries B.C.E. and C.E.),” “New Testament Period (Mid-First Century C.E.),” “New Testament Period (Late First Century C.E.)”
Barbara Green, O.P., Ph.D., Interfaces editor, is a professor at the Dominican School of Philosophy and Theology at the Graduate Theological Union in Berkeley, California.
Carleen Mandolfo is assistant professor at St. Mary’s College in Moraga, California.
Catherine M. Murphy is assistant professor at Santa Clara University in California.
Herodias
At Home in That Fox’s Den
Florence Morgan Gillman
BookPaper, 160 pp., 6 x 9
Price: $ 14.95
Herodias successfully plotted the death of John the Baptist. This biographical overview studies Herodias’ role in New Testament history and her life as a Jewish aristocratic woman who moved in first century C.E. Roman circles. Herodias provides allusions, quotes, and lighthearted subtitles that command the attention of readers. Clearly organized and detailed, Herodias is ideal for undergraduate students and those interested in further biographical Bible study—both those with extensive Bible background and those recently introduced to the faith.
Chapters are “Passages: The Road to Herodian Womanhood,” “The Choice to Run with the Fox,” “The Sound and the Fury. Part I: His Charge,” “The Sound and the Fury. Part II: Her Rage,” “Demoted by Matthew and Fired by Luke,” “Writ Large by Mark,” and “Life After the Banquet.” Also included are an Introduction, “In the Lair of Antipas,” an Epilogue, “Life After Death,” and Appendices.
Florence Morgan Gillman, Ph.D., S.T.D., is professor of biblical studies at the University of San Diego. Author of many articles, she also wrote Women Who Knew Paul, published by Liturgical Press.
"This brief but complete study of the infamous gospel figures Herodias and Salome combines serious investigation, clear presentation, balanced judgment and an attractive style." - Jan Lambrecht, S.J., Katholieke Universiteit, Leuven
"This book illuminates a shadowy figure in the New Testament and brings her to life in the fascinating context of court politics and intrigues. It fills a gap left by the relative inattention to female characters in the New Testament and provides a model for historical and literary engagement with biblical texts. It is a book from which both students and scholars can learn with pleasure." - Adela Yarbro Collins, Yale University
"A tale of court intrigue? A well-written biography? A New Testament study? Florence Morgan Gillman’s fascinating story of Herodias has elements of all three. She has successfully sorted out the complexities of the Herodian dynasty and has crafted a text that sets the story of the martyrdom of John the Baptist in the real—but little understood—context of first century Palestinian politics." - Raymond F. Collins, Professor of New Testament, The Catholic University of America
"While there are numerous studies of the men of the Herodian dynasty, there is almost total neglect of its powerful women. Thus this book fills a real need. It is a lively and well-informed account of the most important of the Herodian women. It makes the necessary critical historical judgments, uses the right sources, and sifts carefully through the Gospel accounts, yet it reads easily, with entertaining titles and excerpts from literary works. This is a painless way to learn about the complicated Herodian dynasty and a most enjoyable read about its women." - Carolyn Osiek, R.S.C.J., Professor of New Testament, Catholic Theological Union
Inquiring of Joseph
Getting to Know a Biblical Character
through the Qur’an
John Kaltner
BookPaper, 152 pp., 6 x 9
Price: $ 14.95
The account of Joseph that is found in Genesis 37-50 is one of the most well-known stories in the Bible. Its classic rags-to-riches plot explores themes that have intrigued people throughout history: murder, betrayal, sibling rivalry, greed, natural disaster, and mistaken identity. In Inquiring of Joseph, John Kaltner shows there are two ways to tell this story, and both are worth reading.
Inquiring of Joseph puts the biblical Joseph in conversation with his Qur’anic self. The Islamic text is a clear parallel to the biblical story in the events of Joseph’s life, but there are some important differences between them that result in two distinct versions of the tale. This interface allows for a new understanding of the familiar biblical tradition as aspects that are often missed become more prominent and puzzling elements are seen in a new light.
Chapters are “Introduction,” “Beginnings: Joseph and his Family (Genesis 37; Qur’an 12:1-20 ),” “The Narrators and Characters: Joseph and Potiphar’s Wife (Genesis 39:1-20; Qur’an 12:21-34;),” “Events: Joseph and the Prisoners (Genesis 39:21-40:23; Qur’an 12:35-42),” “Repetition: Joseph and Pharaoh (Genesis 41:1-45; Qur’an 12:43-57),” “Gaps: Joseph and His Brother (Genesis 42:1-44:17; Qur’an 12:58-86),” and “Endings: Joseph and His Family (Genesis 44:18-50:21; Qur’an 12:87-101).”
John Kaltner, Ph.D., is associate professor of religious studies at Rhodes College, Memphis, Tennessee. He is the author of Ishmael Instructs Isaac: An Introduction to the Qur’an for Bible Readers of the Connections series published by the Liturgical Press.
James
of Jerusalem
Patrick J. Hartin
Book Paper,
216 pp., 6 x 9
Price: $ 14.95, Available in October 2004
Through the world of James of Jerusalem we discover the development of Christianity and its struggle for self-definition amidst Jewish roots and a rising congregation of newly converted. In this time of early Christianity, James’ presence testified to the Church’s diversity and he influenced Christianity beyond the literature of the New Testament. Patrick J. Hartin studies the character of James in his various life-roles: as a member of Jesus’ family, as a leader and spokesperson of Jerusalem, and as an important figure in early Christian writing, including that of Paul, and the Acts of the Apostles. The use of historical critical method illustrates for students the growth of traditions and the sources behind the texts.
Chapters are “Jesus, James and his family,” “James as leader of the Jerusalem Community,” “James and Paul,” “James in Tradition,” and conclusion.Father Patrick J. Hartin, Ph.D., is a professor of New Testament at Gonzaga University in Spokane, Washington. He is also the author of A Spirituality of Perfection: Faith in Action in the Letter of James published by Liturgical Press.
King Saul’s Asking
Barbara Green, O.P.
Book Paper,
152 pp., 6 x 9
Price: $ 14.95
Who should lead us? Who should we, as a community, look to for guidance? These questions, as old as humankind, followed the Israelite community upon their return from the Exile: Should they return with Davidic kingship or without it? Their answer was King Saul. Reading Israel’s first king as a riddle or the epitome of Israel’s experience with kingship, King Saul’s Asking explores the characterization of the figure Saul, the question of the apparent silence of God, the multiple complexities of responsibility for kingship, and the readers’ opportunities for transformation. It provides a new approach to the Old Testament, supplying the reader with not only an in-depth character study but also an interesting, insightful read, and opportunity for transformation.
Chapters are “Asking a Child (1 Samuel 1-3),” “Seeking a Refuge (1 Samuel 4-7),” “Request for a King (1 Samuel 8-12),” “Obedience Wanted, Wanting (1 Samuel 13-15),” “Suspecting the Dreaded (1 Samuel 16-19),” “Futile Searching (1 Samuel 20-23),” “Sensing the Silent (1 Samuel 24-26),” and “Final Questions.”
Barbara Green, O.P., Ph.D., is a professor of biblical studies and a member of the core doctoral faculty at the Dominican School of Philosophy and Theology, Graduate Theological Union, Berkeley, California. Editor of the Interfaces series, she also wrote Like a Tree Planted, published by Liturgical Press.
"Professor Green’s sophisticated yet extremely clear reading of the Saul narratives allows their rich meanings to shine forth beautifully for a new generation of readers. Dr. Green writes with both verve and precision. King Saul’s Asking provides a fascinating treatment of the character and the politics of Israel’s first king. This fine book also stimulates reflection regarding the regal tendencies that continue to be played out in readers’ lives and in the politics of the contemporary world." - Richard J. Cassidy, Professor of Sacred Scripture, Christ the King Seminary, East Aurora, New York
"Barbara Green is one of the best biblical ‘readers’ around, combining rigorous and creative literary-critical skill with a deeply felt commitment to elucidating the ways in which biblical texts can beckon us to a richer sense of ourselves. In her hands, Saul is neither the tragic hero, nor the pompous sinner. Green's compassionate reading transforms an ancient king into an accessible, flawed but tormented, man with much to say to our present-day human condition. This book is a gift to students and scholars of biblical narrative, as well as those who would like an introduction to the benefits of reading the Bible through the linguistic and ethical lenses of Mikhail Bakhtin." - Carleen Mandolfo, Assistant Professor, Department of Religious Studies
"This book is a welcome follow-up to Green’s earlier introduction to Bakhtin and biblical studies. From the opening question to the final questions, we are invited into a process of reading grounded in strategies associated with Bakhtin’s thought. The result is a dynamic, exciting, and ultimately enriching experience—one that both professionals and students will welcome." - Charles William Miller, Department of Philosophy and Religion, University of North Dakota
John the Baptist
Prophet of Purity for a New Age
Catherine M. Murphy
Book
Paper, 192 pp., 6 x 9
Price: $ 14.95
How did Gospel authors Matthew and Luke shape the story of John the Baptist around the story of Jesus? Why was the historical Baptist so popular? In John the Baptist: Prophet of Purity for a New Age, Catherine Murphy explores the character of John the Baptist and compares what the foundational Gospels yield: not only the perspectives of the synoptic authors, but also a sketch of the historical figure of the Baptist, which is then placed within the religious, political and economic context of first-century C.E. Judea. Special attention is given to the interface between John and the Qumran community, which scholars have proposed ever since the discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls.
Chapters are “Will the Real Baptist Please Stand Up?” “Redaction Criticism: How and Why Authors Shape Their Stories,” “Baptist Vignettes in the Gospels: A Redaction-Critical Approach,” “Another Angle on the Baptist Movement: Social-Scientific Criticism,” “Purification Movements in the First-Century C.E. Judea,” and “Conclusion.”
Catherine M. Murphy, Ph.D., is assistant professor in the department of religious studies at Santa Clara University. She has co-published three editions of Dead Sea Scrolls manuscripts, and has written journal articles on the Scrolls and the New Testament.
"Standard textbooks on the New Testament introduce students to the conclusions of New Testament scholarship. This book is for those inquiring minds that want to know more, namely, how these conclusions were and can be reached. And so, it is about much more than John the Baptist; it is about Gospel study. . . . This clear and carefully crafted presentation will be a welcome addition to classes which have as their goal to teach not just the content but the ‘how to’ of biblical interpretation." - Susan A. Calef, Creighton University
"Professor Murphy has produced a wonderful tool for introducing students to the methods of contemporary historical-critical investigation of the New Testament. She guides students through the process of analyzing the Biblical accounts of John the Baptist, teaching them in the process to attend to the complex ways in which the ancient texts drew from and altered pre-existing sources. She then introduces students to the imaginative enterprise of reconstructing the social and cultural worlds behind the texts, relying in the process on current ‘social scientific’ analysis of the world of the New Testament. Throughout she demonstrates a sophisticated grasp of the array of tools now available to students of Scripture who want to explore the historical world on which the texts report." - Harold Attridge, Lillian Claus Professor of New Testament, Yale Divinity School
Nameless, Blameless, and Without Shame
Two Cannibal Mothers Before a King
Gina Hens-Piazza
Book Paper, 152 pp., 6 x 9
Price: $ 14.95
Nameless, Blameless, and Without Shame is a character study of two obscure women before a king (2 Kings 6:24–33). It explores the violence encoded in the texts by the privileged powerful. The character study connects these cannibal mothers to portraits of other pairs of biblical mothers and their plight—the two mothers before Solomon, Sarah and Hagar, Rachel and Leah. This prompts us to search for counter-stories in the biblical tradition and in our own lives opposing the violence embedded there.
The text and the tradition of interpretation would urge us to disregard, scorn, or even indict these two women and all they represent. However, the character analysis emerging out of this literary assessment argues in favor of elevating these nameless mothers as blameless.
Chapters are “Building Character,” “A Story Within Stories,” “Literary Criticism and the Tale of Two Cannibal Mothers,” “A Postmodern Literary Study of Two Cannibal Mothers Before a King,” “Stories Speak of Other Stories,” and “Character, Counter Texts, and Conclusion.”
Gina Hens-Piazza, Ph.D., is an associate professor of biblical studies at the Jesuit School of Theology at the Graduate Theological Union in Berkeley. She has written and lectured extensively on topics of literary studies, women, and social justice in relation to biblical texts.
"There is nothing tame about this book. Daring to tackle one of the more disconcerting passages in Scripture, the tale of the cannibalizing women, Prof. Hens-Piazza compels us to grapple with the Bible’s violence and the violence of our own world. Neither a comforting or a comfortable read, this book nonetheless gives the reader the historical and literary tools to think through issues that are timeless and timely. Setting ancient Israel side-by-side tragic worlds like Rwanda and Guatemala, this book shines light on dark injustices that continue to cry out for action. It is remarkable when a carefully written commentary can also unpack such pressing concerns. This is a book that will change the way you read the Bible." - J. David Pleins, Professor of Religious Studies, Santa Clara University
"Gina Hens-Piazza has produced a deeply engaged and engaging piece of scholarship, both accessible and innovative, whose ultimate aim is to understand and reflect on ‘character-building,’ within the literature and in its readers. . . . If you have any doubts about either the practical utility or the ethical possibilities of post-modernism, I invite you to be dissuaded of these by this book!" - Claudia V. Camp, Professor of Religion, Texas Christian University
"Just as she lifts this short episode out of the longer and better known story of political conflict, so she employs, and thus highlights, interpretive approaches that have been overlooked because they do not conform to ‘standard’ methods. She takes seriously the role that readers play in fashioning meaning, a feature considered subversive by some. Her style of writing makes understandable many unfamiliar concepts. This is a book for student and teacher alike." - Dianne Bergant, C.S.A., Professor, Catholic Theological Union
Jezebel
Portraits of a Queen
Patricia Dutcher-Walls
Book Paper, 176 pp., 6 x 9
Price: $ 1 4.95, to be published in October 2004
Powerful. Assertive. Evil. What we know of Jezebel, queen of Israel, seems pure malevolence. What we know is what ancient writers, in their attempt to shape a theological history, considered important. More than just an intriguing story, Jezebel: Portraits of a Queen provides insight into a character used (and portrayed) by biblical writers as a negative example. Two portraits of Jezebel are created: that of Jezebel the story character, taken from narrative criticism, and Jezebel the queen, drawn from a sociological study. Combining these two portraits, the reader can begin to understand the ancient writers’ worldviews, theologies, values, and loyalties. Jezebel’s story gives readers a new perspective with which they may approach all biblical texts.
The focuses on social organization and monarchy will help students study the text within a framework of biblical society.
Chapters are “Method Overview: Narrative Method with a Focus on Rhetoric,” “Narrative Method Applied: A Portrait of a Character,” “Method Overview: Sociological Criticism with a Focus on Ancient Monarchy,” “Sociological Method Applied: A Portrait of a Queen” and “The Methods Interfaced: The Portraits of Compared.”
The Reverend Dr. Patricia Dutcher-Walls is Associate Professor of Hebrew Scripture and Old Testament at Knox College, at the University of Toronto, as well as a minister in the Presbyterian Church in Canada.
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