Kathleen M. Kenyon's interpretation of the history of Old Testament times: An analysis of its genesis, development, and significanc

One purpose of this dissertation is to systematize Kathleen Kenyon's interpretation of the history of Old Testament times, utilizing both her published and unpublished materials. A second purpose is to analyze Kenyon's presuppositions and methodological considerations concerning the history of Old Testament times and implications of her scholarly work in the current debate.;Chapter One deals with the need to systematize and analyze Kenyon's conclusions regarding the history of the ancient Near East in Old Testament times. Biographical information concerning Kenyon's early life, circumstances which led her into archaeology, her excavation experience, and glimpses of her unique personality is presented.;Chapter Two deals with the arrival of Amorite and Canaanite groups in Palestine during the Intermediate Early Bronze-Middle Bronze and Middle Bronze periods. The political and economic effect of the movements of the Hurrians, Habiru, and Hyksos, and Kenyon's interpretation regarding the movements of the Patriarchs is highlighted.;Chapter Three deals with the political instability resulting from the Habiru disturbances and the settlement of the Israelite tribes in Palestine. Kenyon's biblical interpretation led to her conclusions concerning three proto-Israelite groups, many descents into Egypt, and a two exodus theory. Results from archaeological excavations are utilized, especially from Jericho, to reflect on the Israelite settlement.;Chapter Four details the arrival of the Philistines, the rise of the Judges, and the creation of the united monarchy by David. Archaeological evidence from Jerusalem and other sites in Palestine is utilized to illuminate the reigns of David and Solomon.;Chapter Five deals with the biblical and archaeological evidence concerning the rise of the Assyrian and Babylonian empires, the fall of Israel and Judah, the return of the Jews from the Babylonian exile, and the work of Zerubbabel and Nehemiah.;Chapter Six begins with an examination of Kenyon's pre-suppositions and methodological approach to historiography, which include the traditio-historical and archaeological approaches, as well as the eclectic approach of de Vaux. The implications and importance of her scholarly work in the current debate and a summary of Kenyon's interpretation of the history of Old Testament times are presented.