More than half a century after the Holocaust; in countries where Jews make up just a tiny fraction of the population; products of Jewish culture (or what is perceived as Jewish culture) have become very viable components of the popular public domain. But how can there be a visible and growing Jewish presence in Europe; without the significant presence of Jews? Ruth Ellen Gruber explores this phenomenon; traveling through Germany; Poland; the Czech Republic; Austria; Italy; and elsewhere to observe firsthand the many facets of a remarkable trend. Across the continent; Jewish festivals; performances; publications; and study programs abound. Jewish museums have opened by the dozen; and synagogues and Jewish quarters are being restored; often as tourist attractions. In Europe; at the beginning of the twenty-first century; klezmer music concerts; exhibitions; and cafes with Jewish themes are drawing enthusiastic--and often overwhelmingly non-Jewish--crowds. In what ways; Gruber asks; do non-Jews embrace and enact Jewish culture; and for what reasons? For some; the process is a way of filling in communist-era blanks. For others; it is a means of coming to terms with the Nazi legacy or a key to building (or rebuilding) a democratic and tolerant state. Clearly; the phenomenon has as many motivations as manifestations. Gruber investigates the issues surrounding this "virtual Jewish world" in three specific areas: the reclaiming of the built heritage; including synagogues; cemeteries; and former ghettos and Jewish quarters; the representation of Jewish culture through tourism and museums; and the role of klezmer and Yiddish music as typical "Jewish cultural products." Although she features the relationship of non-Jews to the Jewish phenomenon; Gruber also considers its effect on local Jews and Jewish communities and the revival of Jewish life in Europe. Her view of how the trend has developed and where it may be going is thoughtful; colorful; and very well informed.
#148934 in Books 1994-11-18 1994-11-18Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 8.20 x .54 x 5.60l; .54 #File Name: 0520088883204 pages
Review
0 of 1 people found the following review helpful. The writing was fantastic; Nawal has very interesting stories about her life ...By Briana AugustineThis woman is someone worth looking up to. The writing was fantastic; Nawal has very interesting stories about her life I was captivated by this book.19 of 22 people found the following review helpful. A Beautiful Story of Struggle and IndependenceBy TarumsThis is one of my favorite books of all time. I had to read it for a class in college; and I will be the first to admit that I was turned off by the cover and the bland title. I'm glad I was forced to give this book a chance. It's an amazing true story of a female doctor in Cairo who is taken away to a prison for her outspoken ideas. The governemnt takes her from her home and forces her to live with several other women with very differnt backgrounds from one another. However; the situation causes Sadaawi to become somewhat of a "leader;" and the women form a strong and unique friendship. It's an amazing and beautiful book and also a fast read - don't pass this up.3 of 5 people found the following review helpful. Moving and PowerfulBy Dr. OhioDr. Saadawi relates her prison experience in piercing detail; from the putrid infestations to the commentary on the various women with which she shares her living space. But more importantly; readers see inside her mind just how she was able to get through nearly a month of torturous living conditions and the violent separation with her family and home. Dr. Saadawi gives us an insight into what goes through prisoners minds when they deal with an infinite amount of prison time ahead of them with little chance of release. Her courage and determination in living while still in prison and standing up to the ridiculous circumstances surrounding her imprisonment are brought forth with an emotion one can not help but enjoy.
