R. H. Charles: A Biography

by James C VanderKam

R.H. A Biography first situates Charles's work in the history of biblical scholarship. The remainder of the book is divided into three parts that draw on material stored in several archives and other sources. The first provides an account of his early life and education in Ireland. Part two is devoted to his Oxford years (1890-1913). Within a chronological framework, the chapters regarding the Oxford period focus on his pioneering work with Jewish apocalypses as evident in his many textual editions, translations, and commentaries. For all of his major publications an attempt is made to assess how his work was received at the time and how it continues to affect the field of early Judaism. The third part furnishes a biographical overview of his work as a canon of Westminster (1913-31). At the Abbey, he carried out pastoral duties but also published books that made contributions to publicly debated issues such as divorce, while at the same time continuing his scholarly
endeavours. The volume includes bibliographies of Charles's many publications and of works cited.

610 pages, Hardcover

Published May 2, 2023

Reviews

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

Of course I rated this impressive biography five stars. My husband wrote it and I read it and commented on it while it was in process. It was a perfect project for him in his retirement. RH Charles was a very important person in Jim's studies. Writing a biography was a new experience for him, very different from the textual studies he had done over the years. But it was still related to his life's work.