The Sabbath Question in Sudminster

Name: The Sabbath Question in Sudminster
Author: Israel Zangwill

This novel explores the tensions between tradition and modernity in a small English town. The story centers around a Jewish family's struggle to maintain their Sabbath observance amidst the increasing secularization of society. As the family navigates their relationships with non-Jewish neighbors, they must confront the challenges of balancing cultural identity with assimilation into mainstream culture.

By Israel Zangwill · First published 1906 · Genre: Fiction, Satire, Social Commentary · 20 chapters · 16,901 words

First lines

There was a storm in Sudminster, not on the waters which washed its leading Jews their living, but in the breasts of these same marine storekeepers. For a competitor had appeared in their hive of industry -- an alien immigrant, without roots or even relatives at Sudminster. And Simeon Samuels was equipped not only with capital and enterprise -- the showy plate-glass front of his shop revealed an enticing miscellany -- but with blasphemy and bravado. For he did not close on Friday eve, and he opened on Saturday morning as usual.

What this Textopian page supports

The Sabbath Question in Sudminster is listed on Textopian as a novel by Israel Zangwill, dated 1906 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

Work type: Novel
Author: Israel Zangwill
Date: 1906 CE
Language: English
Genres: Fiction, Satire, Social Commentary, Drama, Historical
Length: 16,901 words
Structure: 20 chapters, 504 paragraphs
Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)

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Similar titles

Genres

Fiction — The book is a work of fiction, exploring societal and cultural themes through a narrative.
Satire — The narrative employs satire to critique and examine social norms and religious practices.
Social Commentary — The book provides insights and critiques on societal issues, particularly focusing on religious observance and community dynamics.
Drama — The plot involves dramatic elements and conflicts that drive the narrative forward.