02477cam a22003373u 4500 44550 UtSlPG 20260610134025.0 m cr n 260607r2013||||utu|||||o|||||||||||||| d UtSlPG en iso639-1 PR Church, Alfred John, 1829-1912 The Hammer: A Story of the Maccabean Times Salt Lake City, UT : Project Gutenberg, 2013 1 online resource : multiple file formats text txt rdacontent computer c rdamedia online resource cr rdacarrier Release date is 2013-12-31 "The Hammer: A Story of the Maccabean Times" by Alfred J. Church and Richmond Seeley is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The book delves into the tumultuous period of the Maccabean revolt, focusing on the struggles of the Jewish people against Hellenistic influences and oppression. The narrative follows key figures, particularly Judas Maccabee and his brothers, who lead the charge to restore and preserve the Jewish faith during a time of great turmoil. At the start of the novel, the setting shifts to Jerusalem in 174 B.C., where a festival takes place under the shadow of a newly built Greek Circus—symbolizing the cultural encroachment that threatens the Jewish way of life. The high priest, Jason, is portrayed as increasingly Greek in behavior and attire, reflecting a broader Hellenization of Jewish society. In a conversation with a Greek companion, Jason reveals his complete embrace of Greek culture, rejecting traditional Jewish customs. The chapter culminates in a tragic familial moment when Jason's nephew, a young wrestler, falls gravely ill after performing in the Greek games, prompting the high priest to confront his own moral failures as he attempts to comfort his dying nephew amidst his conflicting identities. This opening sets the stage for exploring themes of identity, faith, and resistance against cultural domination as the characters navigate the complexities of their time. (This is an automatically generated summary.) Original publication data not identified Jews -- History -- To 70 A.D. -- Fiction Jewish fiction Maccabees -- Fiction Seeley, Richmond Jellicoe, John, 1842-1914 https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/44550 85389 85389