Samuel I (Anchor Bible)

Rating:
Summary: Not the best translation, but worthwhile
Review: The anchor translation of Samuel, as with all of the volumes in the series, is rather archaic. The attempt to turn biblical hebrew into old english in an effort to make it more formal is an old tradition, and takes much away from the work. On that score, Everett Fox's "Give Us a King" offers a far more readable and interesting translation. Alter's work is also superior for its explination of ambiguity in language where they occur. So why four Stars?

The Anchor is a must own work for its excellent maps and quite good commentary. The translator also breaks the work down into interesting units of drama that give an interesting perspective. If you just want to read Samuel to get the flavor of the work, read Fox instead. However, if you are studying it, this work, for all its flaws, is a must own.

Rating:
Summary: Not the best translation, but worthwhile
Review: The anchor translation of Samuel, as with all of the volumes in the series, is rather archaic. The attempt to turn biblical hebrew into old english in an effort to make it more formal is an old tradition, and takes much away from the work. On that score, Everett Fox's "Give Us a King" offers a far more readable and interesting translation. Alter's work is also superior for its explination of ambiguity in language where they occur. So why four Stars?

The Anchor is a must own work for its excellent maps and quite good commentary. The translator also breaks the work down into interesting units of drama that give an interesting perspective. If you just want to read Samuel to get the flavor of the work, read Fox instead. However, if you are studying it, this work, for all its flaws, is a must own.