Revitalizing the West by Rediscovering Its Jewish Roots

The Hebrew Bible, also known as the Tanakh, is a canonical collection of Hebrew scriptures divided into three main sections: the Torah (or Pentateuch), the Nevi'im (Prophets), and the Ketuvim (Writings). It contains 24 books and was written primarily in Hebrew, with some passages in Aramaic. The texts narrate the history and traditions of the Jewish people, including the creation of the world, the genealogy and history of the Israelites, and their relationship with God. The Hebrew Bible is central to both Judaism and Christianity, providing the foundational texts for these religions.

In this book, Jacques Barzun provides a detailed and interpretative history of Western culture from approximately 1500 to 2000. The book is divided into four large-scale periods, each addressing different themes such as religious belief, governance, social and economic equality, and the effects of these eras. Barzun explores various aspects of Western culture, including religious and philosophical thought, governance, politics, literature, art, music, science, and technology. He identifies recurring themes like abstraction, analysis, emancipation, individualism, primitivism, scientism, and secularism. The book concludes with a critique of modern society, describing it as a period of 'decadence' characterized by restlessness, institutional dysfunction, and a loss of creative possibilities, yet offering a hopeful note for future cultural renewal.

A classic novel by Charles Dickens, following the life of David Copperfield from childhood to adulthood.