Jewish Movies in American Society

Paper Summary:

The paper shows how the course of Jewish assimilation in America can be effectively tracked by examining Hollywood movies that thematically addressed this issue. Three films are focused upon in the paper: "The Jazz Singer" (1927), "Gentleman's Agreement" (1947) and "The Chosen" (1981). The paper demonstrates how each one is a mirror that artistically reflects the attitudes and social practices of its time.

From the Paper:

"Between 1880 and 1920 America received millions of immigrants, many fleeing European economic hardship, social stagnation, and the physical and cultural devastation produced by the World War. Jews had fled Europe in ever increasing numbers when anti-Semitism became increasingly violent in the last two decades of the 19th century. They found America's open society a comfortable refuge and most assimilated enthusiastically. Within two generations most Jews were fully Americanized, identifying themselves as a nation and a religion but no longer bound by the traditions and customs of their European-born parents."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Bader, M.J. (1994). Political Science: Black Face, White Noise: The Jewish Jazz Singer Finds His Voice.
• Mintz, Steven. Film and History: Digital History Resource Center. www.class.uh.edu/mintz/places/film-3d-early_holly_race.html
• http://www.materialreligion.org/journal/film.html

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