The Princeton Companion to Jewish Studies

An authoritative guide to Jewish studies, reflecting the latest research in a diverse and flourishing field

Jewish studies is a dynamic, interdisciplinary field that draws on the methods of the modern academy—historical research, anthropology, literary studies, philosophy, religious studies, sociology, feminism, and the study of the arts and culture, among others—to illuminate the past and present of Jewish life, thought, and expression. This book provides an entry point to Jewish studies for readers who want to learn about the questions it raises and the insights it generates. Although no single volume can capture the full breadth of the field, this Princeton Companion encompasses some of the most important subfields of Jewish studies, presenting new historical research and introductions to the many other disciplines that can be brought to bear on Jewish history and experience.

The editors, all distinguished scholars of Jewish studies, have gathered contributions from a range of prominent and up-and-coming figures in the field. These contributors offer original perspectives that reflect new findings and novel contexts. Part I, “Rethinking the Past,” aims to give an overview of recent research trends in the study of Jewish history, covering the ancient world, the Middle Ages, and modern times. Part II, “Ideas and Expression,” surveys new research in the study of Jewish language, religion, philosophy, literature, art, music, and other humanities-centered approaches to Jewish life. Part III, "Interactions and Identity," brings the social sciences and anthropology into the picture, along with Israel studies and Mizrahi studies, to introduce the ways scholars today are seeking to shed light on how Jews identify themselves, interact with others, organize themselves, and behave politically and economically.