New Books in Biblical Studies
Marc Redfield, "Shibboleth: Judges, Derrida, Celan" (Fordham UP, 2020)
Aug 10, 2024
Marc Redfield, a professor at Brown University, delves into his book, examining the concept of 'shibboleth' from biblical origins to modern implications. He discusses how language shapes community identity and boundaries, reflecting on personal experiences of exclusion. The conversation highlights Paul Celan’s poetry, exploring themes of trauma and loss through a philosophical lens, notably Jacques Derrida's insights. Redfield connects poetry to memory and political engagement, revealing the intricacies of belonging and the nuances of cultural narratives.
01:06:27
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Quick takeaways
- Marc Redfield explores the evolution of 'Shibboleth' from a biblical concept of belonging and exclusion to its implications in contemporary identity politics.
- Through Paul Celan's poetry, Redfield demonstrates how language serves as both a medium for remembrance and a site of political trauma.
Deep dives
Mark Redfield's Literary Background
Mark Redfield's passion for literature, fostered from a young age, significantly shapes his scholarly pursuits. Growing up in diverse locations, including Switzerland and Brazil, he developed a profound interest in languages, especially German and French, which led him to explore comparative literature. His latest book, which centers on the biblical term 'Shibboleth', emerged from a conference paper connecting literary narratives to contemporary issues of language and identity. This intersection of personal history and scholarly inquiry drives his analysis of how the 'Shibboleth' test functions as both a linguistic measure and a metaphor for belonging in different cultures.
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