This class will serve as an introduction to rabbinic literature. We will examine selections from the vast rabbinic corpus, with a focus on Talmud and Midrash. Our goal will be to acquire familiarity with rabbinic language and modes of thinking, and to consider critically the question of rabbinic origins in their context late antique pieties and politics. Students with various language backgrounds will acquire increased access to the classical rabbinic library. [Auditors with faculty permission]