Judaism in Times of Fascism: An Eight Week Course on Theory and Practice

How is Judaism to be interpreted in an age of global fascism? How is it to be practiced? What is to be done in the face of the resurgence, on the one hand, of historically anti-Jewish forms of fascism, and, on the other, the emergence of a newer variety, one with a Jewish face? The search for answers to these questions begins with an inquiry into our history, and the lessons it holds for us in the fight against fascism today. This course will provide students with a unique venue for this inquiry. Students will be introduced to key concepts, theories, and methods that can help us make sense of loaded terms like "Judaism," "fascism," and "antifascism"; to historical readings and case studies that illuminate the lineages of Jewish antifascism -- including anarchist, Bundist, liberal, and Marxist varieties -- as well as the lesser known histories of Jewish fascism; and to recent texts and other media that address the crisis within contemporary Judaism. Finally, the course will feature ample opportunities for open discussion, and will conclude with a consideration of the possibilities for an emancipatory Judaism and a world without fascism.