The Balaam Allusions in Tristram Shandy , Volume 7

Abstract: In Tristram Shandy , volume 7, Laurence Sterne twice alludes to the biblical story of Balaam, first when nuns behave badly, and then when Tristram does the same. I explain these references, emphasizing Sterne’s gentle reproach of those who think themselves overly resistant to temptation, if not immune. More broadly, I shine light on Sterne’s persistent theme of self-deception, and, too, further confirm his debt to Scripture, especially the Old Testament, that ancient repository of proto- Shandean intrigue.