Goal: To analyze one extremely successful "reimagination" of the Tanak and consider some specific aspect of audience, reception, and popular influence of "the Bible." Due to Blackboard by 5pm on Sunday, October 8 Length: 750-1000 words, typed and double-spaced. When referring to specific passages or events in the novel you must cite specific page numbers, even if you do not quote directly from the book. You may cite the Bible but do not cite any other sources than what are specified in the possible prompts below. You may also choose a non- or partial-text format for this assignment (audio, video, illustration, etc.) if you check with me first! Choose one of the following essay prompts: 1. Choose a family member, friend, or good acquaintance (or invent one) to whom you want to recommend this novel. Why did you choose them? How would you describe the novel to them? What do you think would appeal about the novel to them? Cite specific character developments, settings, or events that factor into your decision. 2. Pick at least four reader reviews from Goodreads or Amazon: at least two five-star reviews and at least two one-star reviews. What did the five-star reviews like about the novel? What did the one-star reviews dislike about the novel? What role does the Bible play in their positive or negative opinions? 3. Compare the representation of two of the following characters in The Red Tent with how they appear in Genesis: Joseph; Esau; Laban; Zilpah. (You may choose two different characters if you check with me first, with the exception of: Jacob, Dinah, Rachel, Leah.) How has Diamant altered or augmented these characters? What effect does that have on the narrative overall? Provide specific examples from the novel.

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