Acknowledgments

This brief introduction to biblical narrative grew out of my course on the Pentateuch and the Historical Books of the Bible. Students’ questions and their consternation have forced me to reconsider how to explain the craft and power of biblical narrative. To be a teacher, you must also be a student, and my students have helped me become a better student.

The Scripture texts come from New Revised Standard Version Bible: Catholic Edition, copyright © 1989, 1993 National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

Tammy Schuetter designed the cover using a detail of Pietro Santi Bartoli’s etching, “Moses Parting the Red Sea,” from the Met Collection API. Her strong design speaks for itself.

Fr. Eugene Hensell, OSB and Dr. Katherine Hayes read an earlier draft and made valuable recommendations for which I am grateful. I also want to thank Dr. Dan Kolb, Director of the Archabbey Library, for his support of this project. Amanda Hurford, the PALNI Scholarly Communications Director, has provided timely help and guidance for this publication. I commend the vision of PALNI and its desire to put resources in the easy reach of students and others.

Finally, I want to thank Father Archabbot Kurt and the monks of Saint Meinrad and also the administration and faculty of Saint Meinrad Seminary and School of Theology for creating the space, time, and support for projects like this.

Harry Hagan, OSB, SSD
Associate Professor of Scripture
Saint Meinrad Seminary and School of Theology