The Banner of the Jew by Emma Lazarus
The sonnet explores the theme of Jewish identity and the longing for a homeland. It describes the struggles and hardships faced by Jews throughout history, from the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem to the pogroms in Eastern Europe. The poem also expresses hope for a better future, where Jews can live freely and proudly without fear of persecution.
By Emma Lazarus · First published 1882 · Genre: Poetry, Historical, Patriotic · 396 words
First lines
Wake, Israel, wake! Recall to-day / The glorious Maccabean rage, / The sire heroic, hoary-gray, / His five-fold lion-lineage: / The Wise, the Elect, the Help-of-God, / The Burst-of-Spring, the Avenging Rod.*
From Mizpeh's mountain-ridge they saw / Jerusalem's empty streets, her shrine / Laid waste where Greeks profaned the Law, / With idol and with pagan sign. / Mourners in tattered black were there, / With ashes sprinkled on their hair.
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing poetic devices and structure.
- Historical — The poem references historical events and figures from Jewish history, particularly the Maccabees.
- Patriotic — The themes of national pride and identity are central, invoking a call to action for the Jewish people.
- Religious — The poem incorporates religious themes, referencing Jewish law and figures from the Hebrew Bible.
Tags
Poetry · Jewish Identity · Zionism · Nationalism · Religion · Politics · Social Justice · Activism · 19th Century Literature · American Literature · Historical Context · Cultural Heritage
What this Textopian page supports
The Banner of the Jew is listed on Textopian as a poem by Emma Lazarus, dated 1882 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Emma Lazarus
- Date: 1882 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Historical, Patriotic, Religious, Inspirational
- Length: 396 words
- Structure: 1 section, 7 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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- Work identity for The Banner of the Jew by Emma Lazarus
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