HSY2560 - Challenge and Response: the Course of Modern Jewish History

Leader: Paul Forgasz

Offered

Clayton First semester 2007 (Day)

Synopsis

The unit traces the history of Jews and the development of Judaism in the modern period from the French Revolution to the Second World War. The unit will deal with topics such as the challenge of modernity; emancipation, acculturation and dissimilation, the rise of Jewish nationalism and the ideology of reform Judaism, neo-orthodoxy and ultra-orthodoxy. Special consideration will be given to gender and class issues, outcasts and deviants in Jewish society.

Objectives

Upon successful completion of the subject students should be able to understand the variety and complexity of Jewish existence in a modern society and be capable of analysing sources critically.

Assessment

Research essay (2500 words): 40%
Seminar presentation (1000 words): 20%
Examination (1000 words): 35%
Seminar participation: 5%

Contact hours

2 hour seminar per week

Prohibitions

HSY3560, JWC2560, JWC3560