In Crossroads of Jewish Bratislava, the author identifies several
key junctures
that determined the history of Jews in Bratislava between the 19th
and 21st centuries, especially in terms of their culture and way
of life.
The first part of the book (History) provides an overview of
historical
milestones, with a particular emphasis on the two totalitarian
regimes
(the Wartime Slovak State and Communist Czechoslovakia 1948–1989).
The second part, entitled Dilemmas, examines the current situation
of
Jewish cemeteries, the consequences of the Holocaust, and the
ongoing
transformations of Jewish holidays. The author’s research leads to
the
conclusion that traditional manifestations of Jewish culture are
being
reshaped by factors of selectiveness, streamlining, and
individualisation.
Spectrum Slovakia Series, Volume 37
Reviewers:
doc. PhDr. Katarína Koštialová, PhD.
Hana Kubátová, M.A., Ph.D.