Author
Israel Zangwill
1864-1926
Israel Zangwill (1864-1926) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Israel Zangwill
Italian Fantasies
"Italian Fantasies" by Israel Zangwill is a collection of essays that reflects the author's impressions and thoughts regarding Italy, written in the early 20th century. The pieces explore various aspects of Italian culture, art, and history through rich, vivid descriptions and philosophical musings. In these essays, Zangwill engages with the beauty and contradictions of Italy, examining topics such as the interplay of religion and art, societal failures, and historical legacies. The opening of "Italian Fantasies" introduces a meditative rhapsody that captures the author's awe and fascination with Italy's landscapes, history, and artistic achievements. Zangwill expresses both reverence and critique, comparing his journey through Italy to the historic conquests of Hannibal and Caesar, emphasizing the deep emotional and spiritual connections he feels to the land's beauty and cultural depth. He reflects on the past's influence on the present and invokes images of iconic Italian scenery and historical figures, setting a tone that balances admiration with a sense of the complexities and flaws inherent in Italian society and its rich heritage.
Without Prejudice
"Without Prejudice" by Israel Zangwill is a collection of essays written during the late 19th century. This work reflects the author’s views on various social, literary, and philosophical issues of his time, encapsulating a rich and whimsical examination of life and its complexities. Throughout these essays, Zangwill engages in discussions that critique societal norms, particularly focusing on gender roles, the arts, and the challenges of existence. The opening of "Without Prejudice" introduces a vivid and surreal vision experienced by the narrator, who finds himself surrounded by a vast assembly of women expressing their grievances and desires in a raucous uproar. This scene serves as a fantastical representation of societal expectations placed upon both genders. The narrator initially attempts to defend himself against their accusations, claiming his lack of power to address their demands. As the dialogue shifts from women to men, the narrator grapples with the burdens of responsibility and guilt pertaining to social injustices, leading to a deeper contemplation about humanity's shared struggles. This vivid introduction sets the tone for a series of critical reflections on modernity and the myriad issues that plague society, illustrating how Zangwill masterfully intertwines fantasy with pointed social commentary.
The Master; a Novel
"The Master" by Israel Zangwill is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around the life of young Matt Strang, who faces the struggles of growing up in a rural Nova Scotia family afflicted by poverty and loss. The novel explores themes of family dynamics, personal aspirations, and the pursuit of artistic expression against the backdrop of a harsh, unforgiving landscape. The opening of the novel introduces readers to the Strang family, highlighting the challenges they face following the death of Matt's father, a sailor who dies at sea. The narrative begins in the cold winter of Acadia, where the family deals with their grief while also confronting the practicalities of survival. Matt, who has artistic talents, grapples with the reality of his circumstances, taking on the role of caretaker for his siblings as they navigate their mother's emotional turmoil and the looming responsibility of paying off the family mortgage. The source of much of their distress is their mother’s erratic behavior, which leads to dramatic confrontations, as well as Matt's internal struggles as he seeks to find a balance between duty to his family and his longing for creative fulfillment.
The Melting-Pot
"The Melting-Pot" by Israel Zangwill is a play first staged in 1908. It follows David Quixano, a Russian Jewish immigrant who survived a pogrom that killed his family. In America, he composes an "American Symphony" celebrating his vision of a society free from ethnic divisions. When he falls in love with Vera, a Russian Christian immigrant, their romance faces a dramatic confrontation with the past. The play popularized the term "melting pot" as a symbol for American ethnic assimilation.
Jinny the Carrier
"Jinny the Carrier" by Israel Zangwill is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Jinny, a young woman who takes on the unconventional role of a carrier in a rural Essex village, navigating the challenges of gender expectations and personal responsibility. As she fulfills her duties, the novel explores themes of community, tradition, and the everyday lives of those in rural England. The beginning of "Jinny the Carrier" establishes the setting and introduces key characters through an epistolary dedication, a preamble that captures the beauty of the Essex landscape, and an opening chapter detailing the life of the carrier, Jinny. The narrative showcases her routine as she travels with her horse, Methusalem, through scenic villages, delivering parcels while reflecting on her life and relationships. Early interactions with characters like Caleb, Martha, and the postman, Bundock, set a tone of humor and warmth, highlighting the dynamics of rural life and foreshadowing the unfolding stories of love, duty, and social change.
Children of the Ghetto: A Study of a Peculiar People
"Children of the Ghetto: A Study of a Peculiar People" by Israel Zangwill is a novel set in the early 20th century, exploring the lives and struggles of Jewish immigrants in the London Ghetto. The book delves into themes of poverty, identity, and community, portraying the complex social dynamics and cultural heritage of the Jewish people as they navigate life in an urban environment filled with challenges and discrimination. The opening portion of the novel introduces us to the character of Esther Ansell, a young girl tasked with fetching soup for her hungry family. We witness her journey through the harsh and squalid streets of the Ghetto, where the experiences of starvation and hardship are contrasted with moments of warmth and resilience. The narrative paints a vivid picture of the community's struggles against poverty, illustrating the sense of camaraderie among its inhabitants, as well as the societal pressures they face. Through the depiction of Esther's home life and her father's inability to provide for the family, Zangwill sets the stage for a story rich with emotional depth and social commentary.
Ghetto Comedies
"Ghetto Comedies" by Israel Zangwill is a collection of short stories written in the early 20th century. The stories focus on the experiences of Jewish characters living in the ghetto, capturing their struggles, identities, and relationships within a changing society. Through a blend of humor and tragedy, Zangwill illustrates the lives of these individuals, emphasizing the complexities and challenges they face in the pursuit of acceptance and belonging. The opening of "Ghetto Comedies" introduces the character of Israel Quarriar, a Jewish artist seeking a model for his painting of the Man of Sorrows. During his quest, he encounters Quarriar, a darkly bearded man sitting on a curb in Brighton, embodying the profound sadness he aims to depict. As the narrator learns about Quarriar's past—his escape from Russia and the hardships he endures in London—these early pages set the stage for a deeper exploration of themes such as suffering, identity, and the search for dignity in a cruel world. The initial chapters illustrate not only the personal history of the model but also hint at the collective history of the Jewish community, establishing a poignant backdrop for the stories that follow.
Dreamers of the Ghetto
"Dreamers of the Ghetto" by Israel Zangwill is a historical fiction work written in the late 19th century. The book chronicles the lives of Jewish figures who emerged from the Ghetto, emphasizing their artistic and philosophical struggles against societal constraints. Central to the narrative are characters who grapple with their identities and aspirations within the confines and traditions of their community. The opening of the book sets a reflective tone as the narrator introduces a child living in the Venetian Ghetto, recalling his life in the shadowy confines and rich cultural traditions of his community. The child looks out from his high window, absorbing the vibrant life of the Ghetto while remaining blissfully unaware of the outside world and the badges of shame carried by his people. From the child's perspective, the Ghetto feels magical and full of wonders, filled with the traditions and rituals that define his existence, until he begins to confront the harsh reality of his community's isolation and the psyche of its people. This initial glimpse establishes the deep emotional and cultural essence that will inform the themes throughout the work.
The Old Maids' Club
"The Old Maids' Club" by Israel Zangwill is a comedic novel written in the late 19th century. The book centers around Lillie Dulcimer, a precocious and intelligent young woman who, frustrated by her father's attempts to marry her off, founds a club to redefine the concept of "Old Maid" and to attract like-minded, independent women. Through Lillie and the club's humorous by-laws, the story explores the themes of love, societal expectations, and female empowerment. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Lillie Dulcimer, who is characterized by her sharp wit and strong will. After the passing of her mother, Lillie firmly refuses her father's pressure to marry, insisting that she will not settle for any man who does not love her in return. In her frustration, she establishes the Old Maids' Club, designed for young, wealthy, and beautiful women who have spurned marriage offers. The narrative unfolds with Lillie's charming eccentricity as she devises rules to promote an anti-marriage ideology while simultaneously attracting potential members, including the club's first guest, Lord Silverdale, who becomes entangled with the club's mission. This opening portion sets the stage for a humorous exploration of relationships, societal norms, and the quest for self-identity among women.
The Grey Wig: Stories and Novelettes
"The Grey Wig: Stories and Novelettes" by Israel Zangwill is a collection of fictional narratives written in the early 20th century. The work appears to explore themes related to aging, social status, and the human condition through the lens of its main characters, two elderly women navigating their lives in a Parisian hotel. These characters, Madame Valière and Madame Dépine, are depicted as having a complex relationship marked by mutual resentment, jealousy over appearances, and a desire for social acceptance. The opening of the volume introduces readers to Madame Valière and Madame Dépine, two aging women living in the Hôtel des Tourterelles. Both women are characterized by their brown wigs and their contrasting personalities; Madame Valière, who has a noble past, presents a dignified exterior despite ongoing struggles, while Madame Dépine embodies a more resentful, bitter attitude towards her circumstances. Their mundane lives are disrupted by the arrival of Madame la Propriétaire, whose grey wig symbolizes an aspiration they both secretly share. In this opening portion, Zangwill deftly illustrates the dynamics and tensions that arise from their isolation and their longing for connection, setting the stage for the deeper explorations of identity and societal expectations in the stories that follow.
The King of Schnorrers: Grotesques and Fantasies
"The King of Schnorrers: Grotesques and Fantasies" by Israel Zangwill is a picaresque novel published in 1894. Set in England at the turn of the nineteenth century, it follows the cunning exploits of Manasseh Bueno Barzillai Azevedo da Costa, a Sephardi Jew who earns his title as the King of Schnorrers through wit and aristocratic pride. With his Ashkenazi sidekick, Manasseh navigates London's Jewish community, cleverly exploiting traditions of charity to turn begging into an art form where the mendicant becomes master.
The Grandchildren of the Ghetto
"The Grandchildren of the Ghetto" by Israel Zangwill is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story unfolds in a Jewish milieu in London, exploring the lives of its characters as they navigate the complexities of identity, culture, and social expectations. Through the interactions of the Goldsmith family and their guests during a Christmas dinner, the book delves into themes of religious adherence, cultural pride, and the dichotomy of Jewish life in a Christian-dominated society. The opening of the novel begins with a sumptuous Christmas dinner hosted by Mrs. Henry Goldsmith, where the guests, all of Jewish descent, engage in animated discussions about their community and its representation in literature. The atmosphere is charged with humor, irony, and underlying tensions, particularly regarding a controversial book that paints a negative picture of modern Jews. Characters like Sidney Graham and Raphael Leon emerge as central figures, highlighting the struggle between tradition and modernity, and the conversation reflects a broader commentary on cultural assimilation and identity. Mrs. Goldsmith’s efforts to maintain tradition clash with the aspirations and personal reflections of the younger generation, particularly those striving to find their place in a changing world.
The Big Bow Mystery
"The Big Bow Mystery" by Israel Zangwill is a murder mystery novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around the bizarre murder of Arthur Constant, found dead in a locked room, leading to a perplexing investigation that captivates public attention. It blends humor with the tension of a whodunit, exploring the lives surrounding the murder as characters grapple with the implications of the crime. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Mrs. Drabdump, a weary widow who runs a boarding house in Bow. The narrative quickly establishes the foreboding atmosphere of a foggy December morning when she realizes her lodger, Mr. Arthur Constant, has not responded to her morning wake-up call. Concerned, she calls upon Grodman, a retired detective living nearby, who bursts through the door only to discover Constant lying dead in his bed with his throat cut. The mystery deepens as all windows and doors are secured, leaving the investigators baffled about how a murder could have occurred in such a seemingly impossible scenario. This sets off a chain of inquiry filled with colorful characters and attempts to unravel the truth behind Constant's tragic demise.
Ghetto Tragedies
"Ghetto Tragedies" by Israel Zangwill is a collection of short stories written in the late 19th century. The book explores the challenges and struggles faced by Jewish individuals living in ghettos, highlighting themes of faith, family, and identity. It delves deeply into the lives of its characters, emphasizing the emotional and social hardships they endure. The opening of "Ghetto Tragedies" introduces us to Zillah and Jossel, a Jewish couple living in London's East End, who have long desired a child. After a year of fasting and prayer, Zillah gives birth to a son, whom they name Brum. Despite their happiness, the family grapples with Brum's frail health and eventual blindness, which tests their faith and resilience. As they confront societal pressures and the struggle between tradition and modernity, their story sets the stage for a poignant examination of the trials faced by those in the ghetto.
Les enfants du Ghetto
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Chosen Peoples Being the First "Arthur Davis Memorial Lecture" delivered before the Jewish Historical Society at University College on Easter-Passover Sunday, 1918/5678
"Chosen Peoples" by Israel Zangwill is a scholarly work that falls within the genre of historical and philosophical discourse, written in the early 20th century. The text serves as the first Arthur Davis Memorial Lecture, delivered in 1918, and addresses the complex themes surrounding the Jewish notion of being a "Chosen People" while exploring its implications historically and ethically. Zangwill delves into the cultural and societal perceptions of Judaism amidst broader human history and the interplay of spiritual identity and social responsibility. In "Chosen Peoples," Zangwill begins by examining the contentious claim that Jewish people are divinely chosen, highlighting the historical grievances this notion has sparked in both Jewish and non-Jewish communities. He contemplates the evolution of Jewish identity through biblical narratives, emphasizing that the concept of being chosen does not carry connotations of superiority; rather, it implicates a profound responsibility towards universal moral principles and ethical behavior. Zangwill elucidates the dual currents of self-interest and altruism within Judaism, arguing that the essence of the Jewish mission is to serve the greater good of humanity, dispelling both notions of racial supremacy and the dangers of self-isolation. Through a critical and reflective lens, he ultimately posits that the Jewish experience transcends ethnic confines, asserting that all human beings share a collective destiny that should strive for justice and peace.
Merely Mary Ann
"Merely Mary Ann" by Israel Zangwill is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the interactions between Lancelot, a struggling musician living in a modest lodging house, and Mary Ann, the unassuming and hard-working servant in the household. Through their encounters, the book explores themes of class disparity, ambition, and the human condition against the backdrop of South London life. The opening of the novel introduces Lancelot as he navigates his mundane existence filled with music and creative aspirations. It portrays his first meetings with Mary Ann, initially noting her humble station and the drudgery of her daily tasks. Lancelot's interactions reveal a mixture of condescension and reluctant admiration for Mary Ann's character. As he grapples with his own artistic struggles, the dynamic between them begins to shift, leaving readers curious about their evolving relationship and the potential emotional undercurrents between a man striving for greatness and a girl labeled merely by her common name. This exploration of their lives offers a poignant reflection on the themes of worth and recognition in a world constrained by social class.