Moses in Jewish Literature: The Evolution of a Biblical Figure

Moses is one of the most prominent figures in history, yet his portrayal is far from static. Across centuries of Jewish writing, his character has been reimagined to reflect the shifting values, challenges, and hopes of different eras. In this text-only course, you will journey through the rich landscape of Jewish literature to discover the diverse "faces" of Moses. You will develop the skills to analyze sacred and historical texts, trace the evolution of key narratives, and understand how cultural contexts shape the way we view foundational figures. What you'll learn: - Understand the foundational biblical narratives of Moses and the literary tools used to analyze them - Trace the transformation of Moses' character through Second Temple and rabbinic literatures - Analyze medieval commentaries and philosophical interpretations of Moses' leadership and prophecy - Examine how modern Jewish thought, literature, and contemporary art adapt the figure of Moses to address modern identity - Apply reception history and modern literary theory frameworks to classical religious texts The course begins with foundational definitions of key literary terms and an introduction to reception history, ensuring a clear starting point for beginners. You will then progress chronologically, exploring texts from antiquity to the modern era to see how Moses' image evolved over time. This course is designed for beginners interested in literature, history, or religious studies, with no prior knowledge of Hebrew or classical texts required. Start reading today to uncover the deep literary history behind one of the world's most influential leaders.