The Logic of Incest: A Structuralist Analysis of Hebrew Mythology

by Seth Kunin

Publisher:

Sheffield Academic Press

, 1995

Overview

The myths of Genesis are the foundation for hundreds of texts written at later diachronically distinct and datable periods. Seven texts—Genesis, Genesis Rabbah, Pirke deRabbi Eliezer and mediaeval compilations—are examined here, with five interrelated questions in focus:

• Can structuralist theory be applied usefully to societies conscious of history and change?
• What is the relationship between continuity and transformation as a mythological tradition develops diachronically?
• What role does diachronic development within a myth play in relation to its underlying structure?
• What is the synchronic structure of Israelite (or rather, biblical) myth?
• Are there identifiable patterns of transformation and continuity between biblical myth and the three diachronically distinct levels of rabbinic myth?

In the Logos edition, all Scripture references in The Logic of Incest link to the original language texts and the Bibles in your library. By employing Logos’ advanced search features, you can find the exact topics or passages you’re looking for. Whether you are encountering the cultural context of the Bible for the first time, or you’re working on advanced archaeological, historical, or textual research, the Logos edition is right for you.

Key Features

• Hebrew mythology from a structuralist perspective
• Illustrations and maps
• Bibliographical references and indexes

Product Details

• Title: The Logic of Incest: A Structuralist Analysis of Hebrew Mythology
• Author: Seth Daniel Kunin
• Publisher: Sheffield
• Publication Date: 2009
• Pages: 297

About Seth Kunin

Seth D. Kunin is the Director of Research in the College of Arts and Social Sciences of the University of Aberdeen. He received his PhD in Anthropology from the University of Cambridge.

The Journal for the Study of the Old Testament Supplement (renamed the Library of Hebrew Bible/Old Testament Studies in 2005) is a premier book series that offers cutting-edge work for a readership of scholars, teachers in the field of Hebrew Bible/Old Testament studies, postgraduate students and advanced undergraduates. All the diverse aspects of Old Testament study are represented and promoted in the series, including innovative work from historical perspectives, studies using social-scientific and literary theory, and developing theological, cultural and contextual approaches.