Jewish Law

This seminar explores the development of Jewish law from Biblical times to modern day. Attention will be paid both to general thematic issues (e.g., the interplay between narrative and law, the concept of obligation, and ritual vs. non-ritual law) as well as to particular topics (e.g., criminal punishment, torts, provision for the poor, conflict resolution, dietary rules, and same-sex marriage). At times, comparisons will be made with the American legal system. No prior background in Jewish law is required.