I'm doing research for a paper, and found this fascinating quote:
"To a modern reader inadequately equipped with Talmud's knowledge, it is virtually impossible to penetrate...even a simple letter...even ordinary letter writing was heavily affected by the literary style flowing from the intensive Talmudic training..."
--The Jews of Early Modern Venice, essay by Robert Bonfil, 172-173 (Italics mine)
DUH. It's so frustrating to read studies on Jewish history by people who have never learned what the Jews of the period learned (and continue to learn...), and therefore have no clue of the mentality of the people, and so of course can't understand the society!!
At least this guy figured that out...'course, he then goes on to attempt to "penetrate" the culture...
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
4 comments:
Like everything, knowledge and information must be put into a proper perspective.
Have a Good Shabbos, and may you be inscribed for a year of good health, prosperity and peace.
I had little idea what you were refering to in your "next" post ("...hu hasoton"), but one thing I do understand is confusion; that is his greatest weapon. You know what is the right choice and then stick to it. May the coming year be a year of clarity for all.
I appreciate that, Karl. I'm just going through a couple of hard choices that're hard to articulate and that I'm not really sure I want to share (which was why I erased it..).
Thank you for your concern, though.
Chasiva v'chasima tova.
May you be inscribed for a year of good health, peace and prosperity.
Post a Comment