Language:
English
Year of publication:
1989
Titel der Quelle:
Jewish Quarterly
Angaben zur Quelle:
36,3 (1989) 14-23
Keywords:
Jews History 1945-
Abstract:
Argues that Eastern European Jewry and its cultures have never been given true expression in Jewish life. The story of this Jewry was told by Western European Jews, whether as an exotic curiosity or as a negative symbol of unemancipated Jewry. Discusses unsuccessful efforts of 19th century Western Jews to integrate; they failed to realize that assimilated Jews were even more disliked by antisemites than traditional Jews, and they blamed antisemitism on the "uncivilized Ostjuden". This sentiment led either to self-hatred or to philanthropic efforts to help the less fortunate. Meanwhile, Gentile society had abandoned universal ideals for the cult of the nation and the hero. The ghetto or "shtetl" Jews served the purpose of providing a mythical folk heritage - at a safe distance. Since this heritage was destroyed by the Nazis, guilt is now an added reason for West European Jews to neglect Eastern European culture while searching for excuses for the behavior of German Jews. Predicts that Eastern European Jewry and its study may undergo a revival since ethnic identity is now a matter of pride.
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