Imaginative Arts Apprentice

 Imaginative Arts!

1. Choose one of these questions to answer in our book discussion.

1. What is a “zealot” in the first century? Look up the tradition of Jewish zealots and see what the meaning of that word and tradition are.

2. Today we understand that Daniel’s sister Leah was suffering from post- traumatic stress disorder (a collection of symptoms induced by witnessing the untimely and horrific deaths of her father and mother). In the first century, this collection of symptoms was attributed to demons. Leah never had any way to integrate her fear, anxiety and grief. What helps her to begin her recovery in the story? What thwarts it? How do you understand her healing at the end of the story? (Hint: not only does Jesus pray for her, but the week four passage is a part of that healing... how? Take some time to explore the possibilities.)

3. How does Daniel see Rosh’s band of zealots’ actions in town and toward fellow Jews when he shares his home with them in the mountains? How does his feeling about those actions change when he becomes a town’s blacksmith? How do you account for that change?

4. Can you make a list of some differences between Rosh’s vision of justice and Jesus’? Why might Jesus’ view of the kingdom have been upsetting to Daniel when he first heard it? What changed him by the end?

5. Rosh calls Daniel “soft” repeatedly in the story. Do you agree with this assessment? Why or why not? Would Jesus have considered being “soft” a strength or weakness? Why?

6. Romans are portrayed as especially oppressive rulers of this conquered people. Look up some historical information of the time period to understand crucifixion, the practices of soldiers in the town and so on. Jot down some of their practices (as described in the novel) and why the citizens may have been so keen to overthrow them. Which ones are the most upsetting and unnerving to you?

7. Thace (Joel’s sister) is a wonderful character, though perhaps unrealistic to the time period (she seems to have an exceptional freedom and sense of self for the era). List some of her characteristics that make her interesting and that help Leah heal, and Daniel to grow into the man he is meant to be.

8. The novel tells of the deep divide of prejudice between Roman soldier and Jewish citizen. They could not talk civilly to one another, they were unable to share meals, and certainly neither was welcome in the other’s home or military camp. What kind of Roman soldier does the blonde-haired boy (who spoke with Leah) turn out to be? Did you realize that he, too, is from a conquered people? He had no special desire to serve as a soldier or any particular allegiance to Rome, either, yet was conscripted to serve in the Roman army anyway, taken far from home doing the bidding of the emperor. How does Daniel slowly evolve in his compassion for this particular Roman? 

2. Get together with your culture groups and figure out the culture you unburied.  I will also give you time in class.  You will be presenting on your findings in class.

3. Come prepared to share one thing that you learned at the BYU Museum of Peoples and Cultures.

4. Have a great week!  If you signed up to do your end of year presentation, make sure you get that done.