The Jewish War: Some Neglected Regional Factors

Abstract

This paper argues that new historical perspectives are possible on the Jewish War if some entrenched thinking on the subject is revisited. The controversial life and apologetic tone of the works of Flavius Josephus have understandably detained scholars, but it is suggested that on some issues tracing the evolution of his thinking and biases permits a more independent reading of his text. Among the consequences which follow, two are particularly important: first, that traces of historic regional dynamics shaping both Roman and Jewish activity during the conflict can be reconstructed, and second, that a distinctive Egyptian component can be isolated in the politics of Flavian usurpation.