This course examines the rich and complex history of Yiddish language and culture in New York City from the late nineteenth century to the present. Tracing the development of Yiddish across both secular and religious communities, we will explore its diverse contexts—from early twentieth-century anarchist circles and mid-century Broadway portrayals to contemporary Hasidic pop stars. We will engage with a broad array of historical sources, including newspaper articles, poetry, cookbooks, films, and music videos, to analyze how different media reflect shifting patterns of language use and the construction of ethnic and religious identity. Through these case studies, the course will illuminate key themes in the history of North American Jewry, including immigration, religious and cultural assimilation, political activism, gender roles and identities, and participation in the American popular culture industry.
Students will gain practical experience in historical research through collaborative class activities and take-home assignments. These will involve working with physical and digital archives, engaging with secondary literature, analyzing primary sources, constructing critical arguments, and presenting research findings in both written and oral formats.
No prior knowledge of Yiddish is required. Course materials will consist primarily of English-language sources, including translations from Yiddish and English-language texts on Yiddish culture.
