March 29, 2018

Space available–Jews & Money: Myths and Reality (5 I&S)

A great course for students of history, economics, sociology, ethnic studies, European Studies, and GWSS, or students looking for I&S credit.

HSTCMP 290A / JEW ST 289: Jews & Money: Myths and Reality

MW  8:30 – 10:20 am

5 credits I&S

PAR 120

SLN: 15634

Instructor: Prof Constanze Kolbe

Course Description

In this course, students will survey the economic activity of Jews in Europe from the end of the Middle Ages to the beginning of the modern period with a focus on the occupations Jews were allowed to pursue and the place of women in earning a family’s living. Students will explore how Jewish economic activity was perceived by non-Jews and how Jews became a symbol for specific economic activities such as money-lending, international commerce, and the emergence of capitalism. The interaction between African-Americans and Jews in the United States and the rise of anti-capitalism and anti-Zionism in the age of Trump will also be discussed.