This play is a satirical commentary on the Jewish community of London's East End during the late 19th century. It revolves around the character of Yankel, a young man who returns to his family after years abroad and becomes embroiled in a complex web of relationships and conflicts. Yankel's father has married a much younger woman, and Yankel is torn between his loyalty to his family and his own desires for independence. The play explores themes of identity, community, and the tensions between tradition and modernity. Through its use of Shakespearean language and structure, the play critiques the assimilationist tendencies of the Jewish community and the ways in which they adopt Western values while maintaining a superficial connection to their heritage.
By Israel Zangwill · First published 1908 · Genre: Satire, Comedy, Drama · 3 chapters