James S. McLaren • Turbulent Times?

James S. McLaren • Turbulent Times?

Josephus and Scholarship on Judaea in the First Century CE
How do you contend with Josephus's interpretation of events when undertaking historical inquiry? Taking as a test case the presentation of Judaea in the first century CE, McLaren argues that existing scholarship fails to achieve conceptual independence from Josephus. It simply repeats Josephus's presentation of a society engulfed in an escalating turmoil that allegedly culminated in the revolt of 66-70 CE. A new strategy is offered here by applying a case-study approach and formulating open-ended questions. In so doing, McLaren calls for an entirely fresh appraisal of the situation in Judaea and other areas where Josephus serves as a major source. ‎

Sheffield Academic Press, JSP Supplement Series - Vol. 29, Hardback with protective cover, english, 314 pages