Miriam Udel

Miriam Udel, an associate professor at Emory University and author of a groundbreaking work on Yiddish children's literature, explores how these stories reflect Jewish life and identity. She discusses how the literature served as a conduit for cultural nationalism while grappling with themes like shame, loss, and childhood ideals. Udel highlights the balance between secular Jewish pasts and modern futures, revealing how authors infused messages of political activism, empathy, and resilience in their narratives, especially in the context of Holocaust trauma.

Miriam Udel, an Associate Professor at Emory University and author of Modern Jewish Worldmaking Through Yiddish Children's Literature, delves into the rich tapestry of Yiddish children's literature. She highlights how these narratives shaped modern Jewish identities, from secular ideals to proto-feminism. Udel explores the genre's historical context, discussing feelings of shame, the importance of Shabbos, and its role in addressing Holocaust trauma. Her insights reveal how storytelling became a means of cultural resilience and political engagement.