Shandler, Jeffrey
Yiddish: Biography of a Language
- ISBN 13:
- 9780190651961
- author:
- Shandler, Jeffrey
- format:
- Hardback
- publisher:
- Oxford University Press, USA
- language:
- English
- Publication Year:
- 2020
- Pages:
- 264
- Dimensions:
- 16 x 23.9 x 2.8 centimeters (0.5
- Genre:
- Religion, Holidays, Jewish,
- Condition:
- New
- Availability:
- Item usually sent within 7 working days
Description
Yiddish: A Language Born of Resilience The story of Yiddish is one of survival and adaptation. From its origins to the present day, this centuries-old language has played a significant role in Jewish life, particularly among Ashkenazi Jews. Despite being held in low regard by some, Yiddish has remained a vital part of Jewish culture and identity. Yiddish: Biography of a Language presents a multifaceted history of this unique vernacular, exploring its development as the language of a diasporic population who have used multiple languages throughout their lives. The book reveals surprising insights into the complexities of Yiddish, including its legitimacy as a language and its enduring presence in Jewish communities today. Despite predictions of its demise, Yiddish continues to thrive, with devoted speakers championing its importance in Jewish culture and identity. This biography offers a nuanced understanding of Yiddish's place in modern Jewish life, shedding light on the ways in which this resilient language has evolved over time.