Dictionary of Jewish Biography

From Abraham to Saul Bellow, from Moses Maimonides to Woody Allen, from the Baal Shem Tov to Albert Einstein, this comprehensive dictionary of Jewish biographies provides a first point of entry into the fascinating richness of the Jewish heritage. Modelled on the highly acclaimed Dictionary of Christian Biography (Continuum 2001) and with the advice of leading Jewish scholars, the Dictionary of Jewish Biography provides a rapid reference to those Jewish men and women who have, over the last four thousand years, contributed to the life of the Jewish people and the history of the Jewish religion. This dictionary will prove essential for general readers interested in the evolution of Judaism from ancient times to the present day, a perfect study aid for students and teachers.
"Who are the Jews? This Dictionary of Jewish Biography, which contains brief accounts of nearly 4000 individuals, presents a wide range of Jewish figures from talmudists to film stars, from poets to theolo- gians, from novelists to kabbalists, from scientists
to rabbinic sages - who have made a major contri- bution to the life and thought of the Jewish people, or who have played an important role in modern history. Until the period of the Enlightenment Jewish
existence centred around the religious tradition: for this reason the majority of those included in this volume contributed to the religious life of the nation. However, with the destruction of ghetto existence in
the 18th and 19th centuries, Jews were free to enter the mainstream of society. As a result, a significant number of Jews engaged in scientific activities, industry, art, sports, literature, business activities and politics - because of their importance, these persons are included as well. Throughout my intention is that this volume should provide the type of information most commonly sought by students and teachers as well as the general reader."