Themes in Jewish History

Learning Outcomes

Knowledge and Understanding

Having successfully completed this module, you will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:

• The creation of Jewish identities in relation to ‘others'
• Change and continuity in the nature of positive reactions and responses towards Jews, including the concept of philosemitism
• Change and continuity in the nature of hostility towards Jews, including the appropriateness of using the modern concept of antisemitism to explain earlier manifestations of antipathy

This module introduces the evidence and its problems relating to specific and crucial periods for the study of Jewish/non-Jewish relations, including Graeco-Roman antiquity; middle ages; early modern; and late modern. It studies everyday interaction of Jews and non-Jews in various environments such as the Hellenistic world, the Roman Empire, medieval Europe; early modern England; nineteenth and twentieth century Britain, continental Europe and the USA. It also considers the influence of theology on the representation and treatment of the Jews in the Christian era. Theories of Jewish/non-Jewish relations, including the seminal work of James Parkes, will be used throughout.

Teaching and learning methods

The current intention is to deliver teaching for this module online. If circumstances allow, some form of blended delivery methods, including seminars, workshops, or individual tutorials may be introduced if it is safe for all concerned to do so. However, delivery will remain entirely online if face to face teaching is not possible or advisable.

Summative

This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.