The Characterization of the Assyrians in Isaiah: Synchronic and Diachronic Perspectives

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The Characterization of the Assyrians in Isaiah is a literary analysis of every text in Isaiah in which the Assyrians explicitly or implicitly feature. In addition, a few texts regarded by dominant voices in scholarship as referring to the Assyrians are discussed. The general approach of this work is to assume a literary synchronic reading in order to appreciate the narrative artistry and meaning conveyed by the final form of the text and to establish a standard from which diachronic inquiry may proceed. Each chapter is a study in its own right, usually concentrating on a passage or chapter of Isaiah. In addition to analysing the role of the Assyrians from both synchronic and diachronic perspectives, these chapters also explore the sophisticated ways by which literary devices function in relation to the depiction of the Assyrians.

Reviews

Hom has successfully put forth an exegetical journey of the characterizations of the Assyrians in Isaiah. Her writing is clear, her arguments are cogent, and her exegesis is solid. The volume would be of great use to students of Assyriology and of Isaiah and the prophets, or even of biblical history in general. -- Matthew James Hamilton * REVIEWS IN RELIGION & THEOLOGY *
Summarized * Old Testament Abstracts *
The greatest contribution of the book is in its sustained focus on the theme of the Assyrians in the book of Isaiah. As well, the details of the exegesis of individual texts and Hom's assessment and evaluation of modern scholarship will repay close attention. Reading the monograph brings a renewed appreciation for the function of the theme of the Assyrians in Isa 139 as a whole; and in that way the book fills a lacuna in scholarship. For this reason and more, the study is to be recommended. -- Paul S. Evans, McMaster Divinity College, Canada * Journal of Hebrew Scriptures *

Author Bio

Dr. Mary Katherine Y. H. Hom graduated from the University of Cambridge (PhD), was formerly an Assistant Professor of Biblical Studies at Ambrose University College, and currently resides in northern California. She has lectured and taught in numerous countries and contributed to various scholarly journals.