Hidden Political Tensions between the Jerusalem and Babylonian Talmuds: Scrutiny of a Single Tale

The oral traditions, legends and tales transmitted between the cultural centres of Palestine and Babylonia during the talmudic period were often subject to change and adaptation. On occasion, comparing the different versions allow us to reconstruct the original form of the story with near precision, enabling us both to trace the motivation for, and the techniques employed in, its adaptation. The tale of the captive daughters of the sage Shmuel (y. Ketubbot 2:6 (26d); b. Ketubbot 23b) constitutes a rare case in which we can trace a folktale’s geographical and historical path. This story also exemplifies the powerful tensions between the Palestinian and Babylonian communities, as well as an intriguing glance at gender issues.

To attend this lecture, visit this Zoom link on Monday, November 23rd at 4:00pm.