Memory and Identity in Ancient Judaism and Early Christianity: A Conversation with Barry Schwartz

by Tom Thatcher

Essential reading for scholars and students interested in sociology and biblical studies In this collection scholars of biblical texts and rabbinics engage the work of Barry Schwartz, Professor Emeritus in the Department of Sociology at the University of Georgia. Schwartz provides an introductory essay on the study of collective memory. Articles that follow integrate his work into the study of early Jewish and Christian texts. The volume concludes with a response from Schwartz that continues this warm and fruitful dialogue between fields.

372 pages, Paperback

First published August 1, 2014

Reviews

[Brian LePort · Rating 4 out of 5]

A solid collection of essays from biblical scholars engaging the work of American sociologist Barry Schwartz. I found concepts like "keying" and "framing" to be enlightening. Stand out essays include Carol A. Newsom' insights regarding "ghost memories"; Gabriella Gelardini's juxtaposition of Josephus' and Mark' view of the temple's destruction; and Chris Keith's explanation for Mark's development and the addition of written gospel tradition to the existing oral version (at least for my interests).