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Document Details :

Title: Observations on the Plague Narrative in Greek Exodus
Subtitle: Strategies Used by the Translator to Shape the Narrative
Author(s): PERKINS, Larry
Journal: Journal of Septuagint and Cognate Studies
Volume: 52    Date: 2019   
Pages: 73-89
DOI: 10.2143/JSCS.52.0.3287092

Abstract :
The translator of Greek Exodus employed various strategies to shape the narrative in the target language. These include the use of ἐκδίκησις (7:4; 12:12) to characterize Yahweh’s purpose in sending the plagues, the translator’s choice of terms to describe Moses’ communications ability (4:10; 6:12, 30, and his choice of terms to describe 'the plagues' in general, particularly the rendering of דבר as θάνατος. The suggestion is made that in 9:9-10 the translator shows awareness of Thucydides’ description of the 5th cent. BCE Athenian plague. Finally, the translator’s apparent use of paronomasia and alliteration in 10:5 receives comment. These example support the hypothesis that this translator is well-educated, demonstrates literary sophistication, is concerned to present Moses in a positive light, and presents the plagues as acts of divine vengeance.

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