Middlebury

JWST 0261

Judaism in the Modern Era

Jewish Thought and Culture: The Modern Era
Contemporary Jewish life poses many questions: why do many Jews say they are “Jewish, but not religious”? What is distinct about Reform, Conservative, Orthodox, and Ultra-Orthodox Judaism? What do the terms “Zionist” and “anti-Zionist Jew” mean? What is the place of the State of Israel in Jewish life? To answer these questions we will study the history of Jewish culture in the modern era: the Enlightenment critique of religion, Jewish-Christian relations, changes in Jewish practice, the revival of Hebrew, concepts of nationalism, assimilation and the problem of “Jewish politics.” Sources will include classical and modern texts, literature and art. 3 hrs. lect.
Subject:
Jewish Studies
Department:
Jewish Studies
Division:
Interdisciplinary
Requirements Fulfilled:
EUR PHL
Equivalent Courses:
RELI 0261 *

Sections in Spring 2022

Spring 2022

JWST0261A-S22 Lecture (Schine)