We will launch the term by considering the impact of Stoppard’s Jewish identity on his plays and will conclude by drawing comparisons with his contemporary, Harold Pinter. Along the way, we will look at the prose of Simon Mawer and Helen Epstein whose writing informs and enriches our understanding of the great playwright’s concerns.
What You’ll Learn
- Discover the bold, witty and engaging voices who define modern Jewish Literature.
- Understand & discuss themes of Jewish identity, alienation and community.
- Gain insight into the workings of language, form and structure. Explore a range of writing styles and literary genres.
Who It’s For
JW3's Modern Jewish Literature course is designed for curious readers who want to dive into the writers, stories and ideas which have shaped our understanding of Jewish life, culture & society.
It’s perfect for those who enjoy discovering new voices, understanding different perspectives and discussing thought-provoking and relevant writing. If you are excited to deepen your understanding of Jewish Literature in a welcoming & inspiring way, this course is for you.
About Your Teachers
Naomi Grant is an artist and teacher living and working in London. She graduated from the University of Cambridge with a first class degree in English before joining the Masterclass Programme at the Jerusalem Studio School in Israel. Following this, she completed the Postgraduate Programme at the Royal Drawing School in London. She is a regular contributor to the London Review of Books.
Aviva Dautch is the Executive Director of Jewish Renaissance, the UK’s quarterly Jewish arts magazine. She has lectured on modern Jewish culture at the University of Roehampton, the London School of Jewish Studies and JW3. Aviva is a regular contributor to courses and programs for the British Library, the British Museum and BBC Radio 4. Aviva also works as a freelance curator and producer for many of the major London arts institutions, and has recently worked on projects and exhibitions for Bethlem Museum of the Mind, The Royal Academy and Tate Exchange.
Course Outline
- 8 October with Aviva: Introduction to Stoppard
- 15 October with Naomi: Indian Ink*
- 22 October with Naomi: Indian Ink*
- 5 November with Aviva: The Prague Spring by Simon Mawer
- 12 November with Aviva: The Velvet Revolution essay by Helen Epstein
- 19 November with Aviva: Rock 'n' Roll by Stoppard
- 26 November with Aviva: Rock 'n' Roll by Stoppard
- 3 December with Aviva: The Centre of the Bed, Joan Bakewell's autobiography
- 10 December with Naomi: Betrayal by Harold Pinter*
- 17 December with Naomi: Betrayal by Harold Pinter and The Real Thing by Stoppard*
*Naomi will be travelling this term, and will be delivering all of her sessions virtually. You are still welcome to attend the course in the building if you wish, where the Zoom will be set up in a classroom.
This course takes place online and in the building. To book the in building section, click the 'Book' button on this page. To book the online section, click here.
