This course is a study of the fifteen prophetic books of the Hebrew Bible, written from the 8th century BCE to approximately the 4th century BCE. The prophets considered themselves messengers from God, called to remind the people to "reject the bad and choose the good" (Isaiah 7:15). Today, politicians and social activists often use exhortations from the prophets to justify their causes, which may include anything from eliminating the debt of developing countries to advocacy for abused and neglected children. Because prophets pleaded with their ancient listeners to take care of those in need, their words continue to inspire modern listeners today. The books will be read in conversation with contemporary work on methods of biblical interpretation, with a sustained emphasis on the theory and practice of feminist biblical criticism. No prior knowledge either of the Hebrew Bible or feminist criticism is necessary.