HIST 009 The Invention of Modern Judaism
Taught as schedule allows (consult the Course Directory)
The varieties of Judaism that exist today reflect a two-hundred-year evolution that began in Europe with the dawn of the modern era. Judaism's distinct movements (Reform, Orthodox etc.) grew out of the first Jewish encounters with political emancipation, the embrace of Enlightenment ideals, and the desire of Jews to create new religious identities suited to the modern world. This course explores the invention of modern Judaism in its social, political and cultural contexts. Utilizing both primary and secondary sources, we will trace the historical development of Judaism as a reflection of the ways that Jews have interacted with the cultures in which they lived. Throughout the semester, students will be required to complete many different types of writing assignments, to revise their work, and to work cooperatively with others in class to improve communication and writing skills.
Course Syllabus (PDF)
