Hammurabi, the Bible, and Current Events
Instructions, short version:
Find a current news story. Explain and interpret the story in light of what you have learned about both the
Code of Hammurabi and the Bible as examples of codified law. What if biblical or Hammurabian standards
were strictly applied to this situation? Would the likely outcomes be better or worse than in the current
system? Defend your position. Write your very best.
Instructions, long version:
1. Use the “Code of Hammurabi & the Bible” classwork / homework sheet as a prewriting organizer.
2. Select a theme that is well covered in both Hammurabi and the Bible. Then go find a current events
story that fits what you know you can discuss. If you know more about Hammurabi or the Bible than
included in our handouts, the use of those passages of law / guides for human behavior is acceptable.
Make sure you identify your sources.
3. If you are struggling to organize your thoughts, try the below. If an organizational style of your own
pops into mind, us it. You do not have to use my organization.
a. One possible organizational strategy:
i. Introduce the scandalous news item. Explain the central conflict.
ii. Explain the relevant point of the Hammurabi
iii. Explain the relevant point of the Bible
iv. Suggest how the case might be handled differently if either or both of these ancient
codes of conduct were employed.
v. Pass judegment as to whether the old codes, or current norms would have a better
outcome.
b. Hints:
i. Be sure you explicitly define what a good outcome is.
ii. Be sure you identify who the different stakeholders are, and how the outcomes would be
better or worse, / more or less fair.
iii. In any conflict there are always at least 2 sets/categories of stakeholders, usually many
more.
iv. Make a concluding statement on the significance of what you have said, some pithy
statement as to how human kind has stayed the same, progressed or regressed since
the time of Hamurabi and the Jewish Prophets.
4. Format:
a. Double spaced, 12 point times new roman, 1.5” side marings
b. Use your very best writing style here.
i. Do not use 1st or 2nd person (“I” or “You”)
c. This will be 1 to 2 pages.
5. Submission
a. Bring a paper version to class Monday. We will do peer edits of your draft. Email an electronic
copy to yourself. I will teach you Monday how to submit to First Class. This will be a paper
grade worth 200 points.
6. Expectations for excellence.
a. I want to see your very, very best. It’s a short assignment. I’m giving you plenty of time to do it.
I’m requiring you to get feedback from your friends before you turn it in. You have choice in how
you proceed. Think clearly and creatively, and organize thoughtfully, write cleanly. Have fun!!