This interdisciplinary commentary ranges from early midrashic
interpretation to contemporary rewritings introducing
interpretations of the only biblical book not to mention God.
Unearths a wealth of neglected rewritings inspired by the
story?s relevance to themes of nationhood, rebellion,
providence, revenge, female heroism, Jewish identity, exile,
genocide and ?multiculturalism?
Reveals the various struggles and strategies used by religious
commentators to make sense of this only biblical book that does not
mention God
Asks why Esther is underestimated by contemporary feminist
scholars despite a long history of subversive rewritings
Compares the most influential Jewish and Christian
interpretations and interpreters
Includes an introduction to the book?s myriad
representations in literature, music, and art
Published in the reception-history series, Blackwell Bible
Commentaries
