Emily Vanpelt
Research Mentor(s): Rebecca Wollenberg
Mentor Department: Frankel Center for Judaic Studies
Authors: Emily VanPelt
Session: Session 6 (3:00pm – 3:50pm)
Presentation Type: Poster 13
Abstract
This project seeks out forgotten Jewish, Christian, and Muslim legends about lesser-known scriptural characters–such as Hagar, Yitro, Bilha, and Zilpa among others. By collecting infrequently discussed traditional stories about marginalized characters, we are working to outline an alternative version of traditional scriptural history that emphasized the centrality of ethnic diversity, the socially marginalized, and oppressed. We have primarily used Rabbinic commentary sources, such as the Midrash and Talmud, to collect these stories. One particular theme that is being focused on surrounds sexual deviance and what it meant for the women accused. By reading through Rabbinic sources, it is clear that sexuality and prostitution impacted– often negatively– the way these women are portrayed in literature. Sexuality is made an example in laws and is portrayed as the root of many issues. Additionally, “going out†was a common phrasing to describe women such as Leah or Dinah, implying engagement in some level of promiscuity or as a way to place blame when unfortunate events occur. The research into these so-called “harlots,†as well as other groups often excluded, can help reveal how certain labeling affected their representation. Furthermore, our findings will work towards creating an alternative history that gives voices to those who were without.
