Set against the backdrop of a fading civilization, the narrative explores the intertwining lives of its characters as they grapple with ancient traditions and modern challenges. Themes of nostalgia, cultural heritage, and the struggle for identity permeate the story, revealing the profound impact of the past on the present. Through rich, evocative prose, the author invites readers to reflect on the echoes of history and the whispers of wisdom that shape the characters' journeys in their quest for meaning and connection.
In this exciting addition to Bloomsbury's Short Histories series, Steven Leonard Jacobs critically yet concisely examines the history of Judaism and the Jewish people, drawing from maps, photographs and archives to illuminate the history of one of the world's oldest religions. Beginning by establishing a definition of Judaism, Jacobs explores the historiography of the Jewish people, in addition to the role of memory in charting history. Including a comprehensive breakdown of the history of Judaism, the author splits discussion into defined eras, taking readers from the beginnings of Judaism, to the split between Judah in the South and Israel in the North, the united Monarchy, and the Age of the Prophets. Exploring the social structures and institutions of ancient Israel, Jacobs incorporates key themes such as civic life, economics, and art – before analysing the interactions of Judaism with Romanism and Hellenism. Moving through the Middle Ages and Pre-Modernity, and acknowledging the role of key figures such as Yosef Karo and Moses Mendelssohn, this book brings the narrative up to the present day, and uncovers the foundations of Judaism in modernity. Jacobs' authoritative yet engaging prose shines through each of the thirteen chapters, which seamlessly intertwine to produce a thorough yet concise examination of the history of Judaism and Jewish peoples.
Focusing on contemporary antisemitism, this resource provides a comprehensive overview through an essay, timeline, and reference entries. It serves as a valuable one-stop reference, offering insights into the complexities of antisemitism in modern society, along with an annotated bibliography for further exploration.
