Former editor of Moment magazine Hershel Shanks to deliver lecture at Fairfield University

Former editor of Moment magazine Hershel Shanks to deliver lecture at Fairfield University

Image: Hershel Shanks The Carl and Dorothy Center for Judaic Studies of the College of Arts and Sciences at Fairfield University will present a free lecture by Hershel Shanks, founder and editor of Biblical Archaeology Review and former editor of Moment magazine, on Monday, November 7, at 7:30 p.m. in the Oak Room of Fairfield University's Barone Campus Center. Shanks will lecture on "The Dead Sea Scrolls: What Do They Really Say and Why Are They Important?"

Shanks, a former lawyer, founded Biblical Archaeology Review in 1974 with the intention of indulging a hobby. Since then, the magazine has grown to have the largest paid circulation of any archaeology magazine in the world, according to the nonprofit Century One Foundation. The magazine has also been known for igniting debate with the publication of controversial topics. In turn, Shanks has become one of the foremost authorities on biblical archaeology, with the Dead Sea Scrolls being one of his specialties.

Shanks, who holds degrees from Haverford College, Columbia University and Harvard Law School, is also the author of several books. His latest, "The Mystery and Meaning of the Dead Sea Scrolls" (1999), was called "absolutely fascinating" by The New York Times.

"Hershel Shanks' long and fascinating career has provided him with many insightful views," said Ellen Umansky, Ph.D., the Carl and Dorothy Bennett Professor of Judaic Studies and director of the Judaic Studies Program. "It's very exciting to have him lecturing at the University."

The lecture is open to the public, but space is limited and reservations are requested. For information and to register, please contact Judaic Studies at Fairfield University at (203) 254-4000, ext 2066.

Posted On: 10-13-2005 10:10 AM

Volume: 38 Number: 41