Antisemitism in History

Catalog description

This course surveys the history of antisemitism from antiquity to the present. Topics include ancient Greek and Roman writings against the Jews and Jewish responses to them, medieval anti-Jewish texts, anti-Jewish dimensions of the Enlightenment, the rise of antisemitism in 19 th century Europe and the impact of antisemitism in the 20 th and 21 st centuries. The course asks, what are some of the important functions of antisemitism in history, and why does antisemitism persist and adapt to new circumstances? A section of the course will also address philosemitism, i.e., prejudices in favor of the Jews. Offered regularly.