Definition And Manifestation Of Literary Antisemitism

Literary Antisemitism: A Lingering Presence in Literature

Definition and Manifestation of Literary Antisemitism

Literary Antisemitism, a term coined within literary studies, encapsulates the persistent presence of antisemitic stereotypes and tropes within literary works. It is a testament to the deep-rooted societal prejudice that has found expression in written form.

Notable Examples and Analysis

Author Gerhard Henschel has meticulously compiled an extensive list of antisemitic passages from literary texts, highlighting the prevalence of such sentiments in literature. These occurrences serve as a stark reminder of the insidious nature of anti-Semitism, its ability to permeate even seemingly innocuous works.

Antisemitism in German and Austrian Literature

The Handbuch der deutsch-jüdischen Literatur (Handbook of German-Jewish Literature) delves into the phenomenon of latent anti-Semitism in mainstream German and Austrian literature. Its focus on the early stages of the Jewish emancipation debate sheds light on how these tropes were employed to shape public opinion and reinforce existing prejudices.

By exposing the subtle and pervasive nature of literary antisemitism, we can confront its lasting impact on society and work towards its eradication.