The European Left and the Jewish Question, 1848-1992: Between Zionism and Antisemitism

This book explores how left-wing political and cultural movements in Western Europe have considered Jews over the past two hundred years, considering the influence of national specificities and common trends. It is divided into three parts: the contribution of Socialism theorists to the Jewish Question, Antisemitism and its representations in left-wing culture, and the perception of the Arab-Israeli conflict.

Format: Hardback
Length: 348 pages
Publication date: 03 July 2021
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This comprehensive book delves into the intricate examination of how left-wing political and cultural movements in Western Europe have approached the issue of Jewish minorities over the past two centuries. The chapters aim to provide a definitive answer to the central question: has the Left exhibited a distinct perspective on Jewish minorities throughout history? Recognizing the diverse geographical contexts in which this subject has taken shape, the book explores the interplay of national specificities and their impact on the various manifestations of the Left's treatment of Jewish communities.

In parallel, this volume showcases the remarkable degree of convergence among left-wing movements, driven by a shared repertoire of representations and meanings. By highlighting the diverse aspects of the topic, the book is organized into three distinct parts, each dedicated to a major theme. The first part explores the profound contributions of socialist theorists to the Jewish Question, shedding light on their ideas and ideologies regarding the Jewish population. The second part delves into the pervasive presence of antisemitism within left-wing culture, examining the various representations and interpretations of this ideology. The third part examines the perception of the Arab-Israeli conflict from the perspective of the Left, analyzing the complex dynamics and differing viewpoints associated with this ongoing conflict.

Collectively, these three themes offer a multidisciplinary framework for analyzing the intricate relationship between the Left and Jews from the second half of the nineteenth century to the present day. By examining the historical, cultural, and political dimensions of this relationship, the book provides a valuable contribution to the study of social movements, cultural studies, and Jewish history.

Weight: 629g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030566616
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021