Judean Antiquities 11: Translation and Commentary

This volume provides the first full commentary to Book 11 of Josephus' Judean Antiquities, with a new English translation. In Antiquities 11 Josephus offers a retelling of the biblical narratives of Ezra-Nehemiah (Ant. 11.1–183) and Esther (Ant. 11.184–296), along with a brief post-biblical narrative dealing with late Persian-era Judea (Ant. 11.297–347). The commentary interprets Josephus’ narrative in detail, identifying biblical, historical and literary considerations that arise from the text. Attention is given to manuscript variants, vocabulary, use of sources, parallel accounts, and Josephus' Jewish, Roman, and Greek historiographical contexts. The volume also contains an appendix on Alexander the Great’s visit to Jerusalem as related in non-Josephan sources.

Table of Contents

Introduction to Judean Antiquities 11.1–296
Introduction to Josephus’ Account of Ezra and Nehemiah
Antiquities 11.1–183 Translation and Commentary
Introduction to Josephus’ Account of Esther
Antiquities 11.184–296 Translation and Commentary
Introduction to Josephus’ Account of the Later Persian Period
Antiquities 11.297–347 Translation and Commentary

Appendix: Alexander in Jerusalem: The Extra-Josephan Traditions (Ory Amitay)