Toward a Definition of Antisemitism (Paperback)

~ (Author) "That history is a seamless web, that any scheme of periodization is an arbitrary convenience to suit a point of view-these are well-known propositions..." (more)
Key Phrases: xenophobic assertions, chimerical assertions, religiosity supportive, Middle Ages, Old Testament, Thomas of Monmouth (more...)

Editorial Reviews

Review

"Presently the most erudite historian of antisemitism that I know." -- Lon Poliakov, L'envers du destin

"The learning, passion and unflinching integrity Mr. Langmuir has devoted to unraveling the history of antisemitism show why he is a teacher of legendary reputation, as well as a scholar of high distinction." -- New York Times Book Review

Product Description

Toward a Definition of Antisemitism offers new contributions by Gavin I. Langmuir to the history of antisemitism, together with some that have been published separately. The collection makes Langmuir's innovative work on the subject available to scholars in medieval and Jewish history and religious studies. The underlying question that unites the book is: what is antisemitism, where and when did it emerge, and why? After two chapters that highlight the failure of historians until recently to depict Jews and attitudes toward them fairly, the majority of the chapters are historical studies of crucial developments in the legal status of Jews and in beliefs about them during the Middle Ages. Two concluding chapters provide an overview. In the first, the author summarizes the historical developments, indicating concretely when and where antisemitism as he defines it emerged. In the second, Langmuir criticizes recent theories about prejudice and racism and develops his own general theory about the nature and dynamics of antisemitism.

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Paperback: 432 pages
• Publisher: University of California Press (February 1, 1996)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0520061438
• ISBN-13: 978-0520061439
• Product Dimensions: 8.9 x 6.3 x 1.2 inches
• Shipping Weight: 14.4 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #1,070,205 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Wonderful Analysis, March 8, 2006

By	Kalan S. Turner (College Station, TX United States) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

Langmuir's work is unique and enlightening. He pursues a unique thesis regarding antisemitism which asserts its difference from other types of persecution. Antisemitism arises from rare 'chimerical assertions' peculiar to Jews and possibly a small handful of other groups throughout history. Most importantly, he reveals the strange growth of antisemitism beginning with the rise of Christianity. He is adamant in his assertion that antisemitism was not a necessary by-product of Christianity but was never the less greatly aided by the social and psychological problems Christianity presented, especially in the 11th to 13th centuries. Anyone wishing a greater understanding of antisemitism, its cultural roots, and its manifestation in Nazi Germany should read this book.