How to Read a Talmudic Story

How To Read A Talmudic Story presents a clear, accessible method for reading, studying, analyzing, and appreciating the rich and engaging stories found in the Talmud and works of midrash. Ranging from the humorous to the reflective, poignant, or tragic, these concise stories use narrative techniques and artistic elements to grapple with tensions and complexities in rabbinic culture.

Jeffrey L. Rubenstein shows us how to use the tools of literary analysis to uncover meaning in these talmudic stories. This book provides a fascinating roadmap for readers and teachers who want to enlarge their understanding of these stories' messages and of their rabbinic storytellers' values, struggles, and interests.