A helpful introduction to the wide-ranging perspectives and endeavors of the "new historicist" movement, especially as it is relating and as it might relate to the field of Biblical studies.

The author provides a sympathetic view toward new historicism and attempts to define and yet not define this very nebulous field. She sets forth some boundary markers, so to speak, for new historicism, and the general tenor of the work done in the field. She provides comparisons and contrasts between "standard" historical readings and new historicism. She provides some examples of new historicist work in Biblical studies, and concludes with an analysis of the possible future for new historicism in the Biblical studies field.

As to new historicism itself-- while it is insufficient for an overall or overarching perspective on Biblical studies, one can see where new historicist foci on marginalized groups, struggles behind the text, and other such studies could illuminate the text in ways that other approaches would overlook. There is much that is postmodern and utterly subjective about new historicism also, and these give some pause.

Nevertheless, if one is interested in the role or the possible role of new historicism within Biblical studies, this book is a good place to start. ( )