Primary Resources: Periodicals

"First Henry Ford had wide-ranging interests"
"For Jews in France, a 'Kind of Intifada'"
"Harvard paper accused of anti-Jewish bias"
"Jews, Pope agree to keep talking"

"Movie on Death of Jesus Causes Stir"
"Passionate Intensities"
"Queen Noor's Antisemitism"
"Romania's Jews see return of anti-Semitism"

"First Henry Ford Had Wide-Ranging Interests"

This short article is a reflection on Henry Ford and his many faces. He is remembered as an innovator, a businessman, a father and an antisemite. The intent of the article is a bit unclear but the overall tone is genuine. usatoday.pdf (33k)

Consider the following:
1. Describe how this article looks at antisemitism.
2. Even after publicly apologizing twice, Ford continues to be on trial. Explain why.
3. Explain what this article says about American ideals, family and legacy.

"For Jews in France, a Kind of Intifada"

This extensive article examines a resurgence of antisemitism in France. The writer thoroughly examines some of the most recent antisemitic activity in France and looks at what is being done to counter it. This is an excellent examination of contemporary antisemitism and its implications around the world. washpost03.pdf (22k)

Consider the following:
1. Describe the different kinds of antisemitism presented.
2. Explain why France is a hotspot for antisemitism. List 3 reasons.
3. Illustrate what this says about the ordinary Frenchman both, positively and negatively.

"Harvard Paper Accused of Anti-Jewish Bias"

In this article, the problems of antisemitism on campus become more visible. The writer discusses the ‘Crimson’, Harvard’s student newspaper, and decisions made regarding the representation on the editorial staff. The decision made to diversify the staff took a nasty turn as Jewish students were viewed as the overly represented majority. Changes were made to correct this ‘problem.’ sptimes98.pdf (25k)

Consider the following:
1. Explain how this article looks at the problem of antisemitism.
2. Tell why the problem of antisemitism on college and university campuses is considered a major issue.
3. Explain what this reflects about institutional values.

"Jews, Pope Agree To Keep Talking"

Written in 1987, this article examines the Jewish-Vatican relationship that was being formed, reformed, and formed again. This is an attempt to look at what is being said and done to improve Jewish-Christian relations. Looking at this piece from a historical standpoint makes one more aware of how the Jewish-Christian relationship has changed and continues to change over time. sptimes87.pdf (28k)

Consider the following:
1. Illustrate how this article reflects attitudes of antisemitism.
2. Describe how this kind of dialogue is productive or unproductive in fostering a new relationship between Jews and Catholics.
3. Explain how this reflects on Jewish-Christian relations, both past and present. Describe what this might mean for the future.

"Months Before Debut, Movie on Death of Jesus Causes Stir"

The article describes reactions by audiences who have seen The Passion. Quotes are included by those in support of the film and by others critical of Mel Gibson’s refusal to show the film to Jewish and Catholic scholars. Scholars worry that the film contains inaccurate renderings of Jewish involvement in the death of Jesus. nytimes-passion03-2.pdf (22k)

Consider the following:
1. Explain why Catholic and Jewish Scholars are concerned with the film script.
2. Explain how antisemitism may be present in the film script.
3. Describe how this film may harm Jewish-Christian relations.

"Passionate Intensities"

“Passionate Intensities” is a review of a book by Phyllis Chesler that examines the new face of antisemitism in the 21st century. The reviewer looks at the issues raised from two perspectives, as a Jew and as a writer. He looks at her work critically and thoughtfully while never wavering in the reality of the changing shape of antisemitism. washpost.pdf (13k)

Consider the following:
1. Explain how the writer defines antisemitism.
2. Describe the major argument in the piece.
3. Describe issues the writer brings to the surface that support Chesler’s thesis. Describe issues the writer brings up that do not favor Chesler’s work.

"Queen Noor's Antisemitism"

This editorial piece is a review of the book, Leap of Faith, written by Queen Noor of Jordan. In this, the writer looks at the theme of antisemitism which seems to prevail in her work. He argues against the historical inaccuracies and rallies for the recognition of this work as an antisemitic piece. post.pdf (100k)

Consider the following:
1. Explain how the writer defines antisemitism.
2. Describe his major argument in the piece.
3. Describe how this kind of editorial can be viewed. (i.e. consider the audience; who is reading this? Explain how this might be interpreted.)

"Romania's Jews See Return of Anti-Semitism"

Although this article was written in 1991, it parallels with some of the more recent statements made by Romania regarding the Holocaust. The article discusses Holocaust denial and a resurgence of antisemitic activity in Romania. Statistical information further supports the writer’s statement showing a shift in the trend of antisemitism among the eastern European populous. sptimes91.pdf (27k)

Consider the following:
1. Explain how Holocaust denial is antisemitism.
2. Explain how the current situation in Romania is indicative of this article.
3. Describe what the dangers of denial are to antisemitism. Illustrate how these dangers are manifesting themselves.

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