PopUp Exhibition | Ashley Bacchi on Hellenistic Jewish Myths and Oracles

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This presentation will discuss the Hellenistic Jewish text of the Sibylline Oracles which combines Greek oracular form and myth with themes from the Hebrew prophets to create a unique oracular voice that weaves together foundational narratives from both cultures. Examining this blend of traditions helps us frame questions on the elusive nature of identity constructions and what primary sources reveal about boundary formations and the complex spectrum between cultural acceptance, rejection, and adaptation.

Ashley Bacchi received her Ph.D. at the Graduate Theological Union in 2015 with a dissertation on Uncovering Jewish Creativity: Gender & Intertextuality in Book III of the Sibylline Oracles. She has cultivated an interdisciplinary approach to contextualizing Second Temple Judaism, which includes Art History, Archaeology, Cultural History, Classics, literary theory and feminist theory. She has published in Zutot: Perspectives on Jewish Culture and the Journal of the Bible and Its Reception and has presented at conferences in the US and Europe.

Each week, UC Berkeley faculty and graduate students, visiting artists and other notable guests will present brief lectures focused on selected treasures from the The Magnes Collection of Jewish Art and Life. One speaker and one object at the time, these “flash” exhibitions will include the opportunity to view the art and artifacts discussed intimately and up close.

Bring your own lunch, enjoy complimentary refreshments, and take part in an exciting learning program, free and open to the public. Close-up view of collections included.

The Magnes Auditorium

2121 Allston Way, Wednesdays Noon-1 pm

Presentation begin promptly at 12:15 pm

FALL SCHEDULE 2016

September 21; October 19, 26; November 2, 9, 16, 30

No lecture on November 23 (Thanksgiving).

Check The Magnescalendarand Facebook pagefor updates.