79-115 Introduction to Jewish Studies

9 units, Carnegie Mellon University

This introductory-level class will survey the long and varied history of the Jewish peoples, from Biblical times, through medieval Europe and the Middle East, to the histories of Jewish people in Eastern Europe, migrations to the New World, the rise of Zionism, the Holocaust, the Israel-Palestine conflict, and the contemporary history of Jewish communities around the world. Across all of these, we will explore topics and themes like religion, collective memory, antisemitism, political violence, genocide, and national identity. Readings will be a combination of secondary academic literature, along with a smaller selection of relevant primary documents. Students will be assessed via a mid-term quiz, a final exam and a participation grade. This class does not require any prior knowledge of Jewish history. This course satisfies one of the elective requirements for the Religious Studies minor.

Prerequisites: none listed

Offered: Summer 2026

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