Jewish Women in the Early Italian Women's Movement, 1861-1945: Biographies, Discourses, and Transnational Networks

This book explores the participation of Jewish women in the Italian women's movement from 1914 to 1945, examining the tensions between participation and exclusion and the impact of racial laws on their emancipation. It argues that their emancipation as women and Jews remained incomplete despite their significant influence on the movement.

Format: Hardback
Length: 387 pages
Publication date: 01 July 2022
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This groundbreaking book delves into a comprehensive examination of Jewish participation in the Italian women's movement across an epoch, offering a transnational lens that explores the experiences of Italian-Jewish protagonists in Liberal Italy from the First World War to the Fascist dictatorship until 1945. By drawing upon a rich array of sources, including ego-documents, contemporary journals, Jewish community archives, records by the police and public authorities, and more, the book offers a profound exploration of the complex dynamics that shaped the emancipation process within this context.

The book argues that the racial laws introduced in 1938 did not mark a sudden rupture in the harmonious integration of Jews into Italian society, but rather the culmination of a long-term development. It delves into the profound social marginalization, relentless persecution of Jewish rights, and the heinous assault on Jewish lives that characterized the fascist regime. Through a distinct perspective focused on Jewish women, the book sheds light on these atrocities, providing a nuanced analysis that challenges conventional narratives.

Despite the significant influence that Jewish women had on the transnational orientation of the Italian women's movement, their emancipation as women and Jews remained incomplete. The book highlights the ongoing struggles and challenges faced by Jewish women in their pursuit of equality and social justice, emphasizing the need for continued efforts to address historical injustices and promote inclusivity.

In conclusion, this book is a seminal contribution to the field of women's studies, history, and Jewish studies, offering a rich and nuanced understanding of Jewish participation in the Italian women's movement during a pivotal period of history. Its transnational perspective and comprehensive analysis shed light on the complex interplay of gender, race, and religion, providing valuable insights into the ongoing struggles for social justice and equality.

Weight: 652g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030977887
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022