Josephus's The Jewish War

SKU: PR9682

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Discover Josephus's The Jewish War, a timeless and profound narrative chronicling the Jewish revolt against Roman domination, culminating in the devastating siege of Jerusalem in 70 CE. This compelling book, published by Princeton University Press in 2020 with the ISBN 9780691137391, is a must-read for those interested in ancient history, Jewish heritage, and the complexities of warfare and faith. Written in Greek for a Roman audience, Josephus offers a unique perspective as both a rebel general turned historian and a witness to his people's suffering. Martin Goodman skillfully details the life and legacy of this remarkable work, tracing its influence through centuries of history and religious thought. The Jewish War is not just an account of war; it is a critical lens through which we can understand the struggles and resilience of Jews during a pivotal moment in history. This brand new edition, presented in trade binding, is perfect for students, historians, and anyone fascinated by the intersection of Jewish and Christian narratives. With its seamless blend of history, biography, and critical commentary, The Jewish War remains a vital resource for recovering Jewish history and understanding the human condition amidst conflict. Explore the stories of heroism that have shaped Jewish identity and the complexities of Josephus's legacy. Note: Shipping for this item is free. Please allow up to 6 weeks for delivery. Once your order is placed, it cannot be cancelled.

Note: Shipping for this item is free. Please allow up to 6 weeks for delivery. Once your order is placed, it cannot be cancelled.

Condition: BRAND NEW
ISBN: 9780691137391
Format: Trade binding
Year: 2020
Publisher: Princeton University Press


Description:


An essential introduction to Josephus's momentous war narrative

The Jewish War is Josephus's superbly evocative account of the Jewish revolt against Rome, which was crushed in 70 CE with the siege of Jerusalem and the destruction of the Temple. Martin Goodman describes the life of this book, from its composition in Greek for a Roman readership to the myriad ways it touched the lives of Jews and Christians over the span of two millennia.

The scion of a priestly Jewish family, Josephus became a rebel general at the start of the war. Captured by the enemy general Vespasian, Josephus predicted correctly that Vespasian would be the future emperor of Rome and thus witnessed the final stages of the siege of Jerusalem from the safety of the Roman camp and wrote his history of these cataclysmic events from a comfortable exile in Rome. His history enjoyed enormous popularity among Christians, who saw it as a testimony to the world that gave rise to their faith and a record of the suffering of the Jews due to their rejection of Christ. Jews were hardly aware of the book until the Renaissance. In the nineteenth century, Josephus's history became an important source for recovering Jewish history, yet Jewish enthusiasm for his stories of heroism-such as the doomed defense of Masada-has been tempered by suspicion of a writer who betrayed his own people.

Goodman provides a concise biography of one of the greatest war narratives ever written, explaining why Josephus's book continues to hold such fascination today.

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