ABSTRACT
Men of the Hebrew Bible engage in sexual violence to negotiate power. Rape, perforce, becomes a predictable feature of its narratives. Biblical hegemonic masculinity, and the rape culture it undergirds, require collusion among men. Collusion occurs on multiple levels: biblical authors create voyeuristic scenes that engage the participation of the characters, their ancient audiences, and even modern readers. Michal will continue to find herself the object in male competitions and intrigues. The women’s response is particularly pertinent; dancing has sexual signification in the Hebrew Bible. The sexual display by the Israelite women for David’s benefit threatens Saul. In return, Saul will use sexual access to Michal to compromise and threaten David. Saul is forced to confront reality: he cannot leverage Michal’s love for David to engineer his rival’s death.
