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“The Yiddish King Lear” by Jacob Gordin. A conversation with Russian audience in the background of European literary tradition
https://doi.org/10.28995/2686-7249-2024-3-101-110
Abstract
Jacob Gordin [1853–1909] was an influential reformer of Yiddish theatre in first half of the 20th century. His dramatic works were created in the U.S. period of his life, but they were also popular in Russia where they were adapted and directed on the Russian scene. The article focuses on the Russian version of Gordin’s Yiddish King Lear. The play juxtaposes Jewish and European cultural elements and unites Russian and Jewish audiences. Situations of Shakespearean plots happen in streets of Jewish towns and neighborhoods. But at the same time Gordin fills the European plot with Jewish features, such as the polemics between religious movements, ideas about the purpose of man (tikkun olam, pikuach nefesh). The reference to the classical European fabula breaks down the public perception of Jews as a group isolated by the Talmud and rabbis, off the axis of history.
In parallel, the text demonstrates to the Jewish viewers that the European world is its own cultural space for Jews as well is a relevant place for them, too.
About the Author
G. S. ProkhorovRussian Federation
Georgii S. Prokhorov, Dr. of Sci. (Philology), professor
30, Zelyonaya St., Kolomna, 140410
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Supplementary files
For citation: Prokhorov G.S. “The Yiddish King Lear” by Jacob Gordin. A conversation with Russian audience in the background of European literary tradition. RSUH/RGGU Bulletin: “Literary Teory. Linguistics. Cultural Studies”, Series. 2024;(3):101-110. https://doi.org/10.28995/2686-7249-2024-3-101-110
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