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Female tricksters in the Old Testament
Herda, Holly
Herda, Holly
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2019-04-19
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Herda, Holly. 2019. Female tricksters in the Old Testament -- In Proceedings: 19th Annual Undergraduate Research and Creative Activity Forum. Wichita, KS: Wichita State University, p. 27
Abstract
The trickster is a character found in stories from virtually all cultures. The trickster can be male or female, malevolent, humorous, or both. They exist on the fringes of society, being different or disenfranchised in some way, and often possess secret knowledge that enables them to get ahead. The Hebrew Bible (Old Testament) is no different. Tricksters abound, both male and female, but particularly female. So, I ask: why are female tricksters so prevalent in the Old Testament? How do they differ from the male tricksters? How do they compare to the general trickster archetype? To explore this, I survey each book of the Old Testament, cataloging every character that engages in trickery or deceit. I compare their circumstances and motives and demonstrate that while the male tricksters stick closely to the traditional trickster archetype, utilizing trickery for self-preservation, personal gain, or amusement, the female tricksters defy norms. As opposed to the men, their actions are never malevolent or humorous, but often desperate, last-ditch attempts to protect their husbands, families, and communities.
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Second place winner of oral presentations for Social Sciences and Humanities at the 19th Annual Undergraduate Research and Creative Activity Forum (URCAF) held at the Rhatigan Student Center, Wichita State University, April 19, 2019.
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Wichita State University
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URCAF
v.19
v.19