The novel revolves around the story of a Jewish family living in London's East End. The patriarch, a devout Jew, struggles to reconcile his faith with the changing world around him. His son, a charismatic and idealistic young man, becomes increasingly disillusioned with traditional Judaism and begins to question its relevance. As the story unfolds, the family's relationships are put to the test by their conflicting values and beliefs. The novel explores themes of identity, community, and the search for meaning in a rapidly modernizing society. Through a series of tragic events, the family is forced to confront the consequences of their choices and the limitations of their creeds. Ultimately, the novel presents a nuanced and thought-provoking portrayal of the human experience, one that challenges readers to re-examine their own assumptions about faith, identity, and community.
By Israel Zangwill · First published 1894 · Genre: Tragi-comedy, Religious fiction, Social commentary