Language:
French
Year of publication:
1988
Titel der Quelle:
L'Histoire
Angaben zur Quelle:
116 (1988) 18-28
Keywords:
Céline, Louis-Ferdinand,
;
Antisemitism in literature
Abstract:
Discusses Céline's personality and writings. He departed from an apolitical stand with his virulent antisemitic pamphlet "Bagatelles pour un massacre" (1937). Argues that Céline's reputation as an antisemite is largely retrospective since, when it was published, his pamphlet was only mildly criticized. During the 1930s antisemitism was considered to be respectable in France, seen as part of the cultural and political tradition. Céline borrowed heavily from antisemitic literature, echoing the French petit bourgeoisie's fear of Jews (and Freemasons), the only original element being his artistic style. Like many others, he identified Jews with the communist danger, the threat of war, and responsibility for the degeneration of the French "race"; his offense was that he used his great artistic talent in the service of antisemitism.
URL:
Locate this publication in Israeli libraries
Permalink