This scholarly work provides a comprehensive overview of Jewish history and literature in the period following the Babylonian exile. Hunter examines the major historical events of the era, such as the rebuilding of the Second Temple, as well as the significant literary works produced during this time, including the Book of Esther and the books of Ezra and Nehemiah. A valuable resource for anyone interested in Jewish history and culture.This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it.This work is in the "public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work.Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.