With
all the publicity surrounding the removal of the Bible and
biblically related topics from the public classroom. the Biblical
Literary Project has produced a volume that they believe will
satisfy the first Amendment test and other major objections and will
permit the inclusion of such a study in the curricula of high
schools around the country. The book is The Bible and Its
Influence.
The title suggests a two-pronged approach in the book; first the
content of the Bible is presented followed by the influences of the
Bible on literature, art, music and culture in general. The book is
arranged in 14 units adaptable to a semester or a year's coverage.
Each unit takes a section from the Bible, in canonical order, and
adds to it appropriate art reproductions, literary allusions,
political responses and other evidences of biblical influence that
flesh out the topic. Each unit also includes suggested class
projects for students to use in developing their understanding of
the current subject along with such features as "Cultural
Connections," "The Bible in History, “The Bible in Literature," "The
Bible in Music." and "The Bible and Culture."
Beautifully printed and bound on excellent paper and employing
wonderful design and layout, The Bible and Its Influence
certainly should attract the interest of any student serious about
studying the message and influence of the Bible.
The Biblical Literacy Project has every hope that public school
systems will adopt this book for use in the public classrooms of the
nation. Those charged with making such selections should examine
this book and give it serious consideration. This is the time of the
year when such selections are made in most systems. For those who
might have the privilege of teaching such a course, the hook is a
treasure house of rich materials from all cultures that have been
touched by the Bible.
Efforts have been made in preparing the book to use historical
events that bore the imprint of biblical influence. Sections devoted
to John Milton are included with the material on Genesis. Space is
given to the Civil Rights movement as a reflection of the Exodus
story of the Old Testament.
In addition to this student edition, BPI, also has made a teacher's
edition available that offers guidance in presenting the material in
class. Other materials available from the publisher include a
document covering court rulings on the use of the Bible in the
classroom.
Although this book would enrich any personal library, not to use it
in a classroom setting would be regrettable.
