With Dr. Emilie Passow

Usually discussed as a proto-type of the dangers of living in the diaspora - assimilation and persecution, The Book of Esther is also a subtle study of the uses and abuses of power. As the narrative continues, Esther becomes the heroine of the text by virtue of her strategic thinking and subtle judgment of when to be assertive, and when to withdraw, when to be blatant and uncompromising, and when to be deferential in contrast to Vashti, Ahashverush, and Haman. This four part series will focus on these contrasts. It is no coincidence that this Megillah carries her name.