Harold, Wiseman's treatment is not very compelling. He uses the 'left-handed
albino midget' type of argumentation: possible, but not all that probable. He
seems motivated by a desire to make history fit into a Danielic shape. I
don't find it convincing. David Valeta's approach, using satire, is far more
convincing, in my opinion. I recommend his new book, 'Lions and Ovens and
Visions', and his short article 'Court or Jester Tales' in the journal
'Perspectives on Religious Studies'.
Regards,
GEORGE ATHAS
Moore Theological College (Sydney, Australia)
www.moore.edu.au