French Enlightenment and the Jews

In "French Enlightenment and the Jews," author Arthur Hertzberg presents a groundbreaking thesis that challenges conventional views of modern anti-Semitism. Published by Columbia University Press in 1990, this compelling work spans 420 pages and delves into the intricate relationship between the Enlightenment, the Revolution, and the rise of secular anti-Semitism. Hertzberg argues that this form of anti-Semitism was not merely a reaction to these transformative periods, but rather emerged from within them, influenced by the libertarian ideals of prominent figures like Voltaire, d'Holbach, Diderot, and Marat. This thought-provoking examination invites readers to reconsider the historical narratives surrounding anti-Semitism and its philosophical roots, making it an essential read for anyone interested in the complexities of Jewish history and Enlightenment thought.