Mar

6 2017

Shakespeare, Shylock and Anti-Semitism - two part series

10:45AM - 1:00PM  

This Federation event will be held at Congregation Knesset Israel 16 Colt Road
Pittsfield, MA 01201

Contact Nancy Maurice Rogers
413-442-4360 x 15
jfb.programs@verizon.net
http://www.jewishberkshires.org

The Jewish Federation Connecting with Community series will show the film, The Merchant of Venice from 2004. Film version includes Al Pacino, Ralph Feinnes, Jeremy Irons and other well known actors.  The film will begin at 10:45, break for lunch at noon, and finish after lunch

This film will be followed on Thursday, March 9 with Hugh Black who will discuss James S. Shapiro's book Shakespeare and the Jews, to commemorate the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare's death.

Hugh will also refer to the "remarkable presentation of the Merchant of Venice at Shakespeare & Co." last summer.  Hugh plans to bring 4 other books to the program as references that speak to the subject of Shylock's character and anti-Semitism.  He said he has heard that "a number of people have expressed the sentiment that they would not see the play because of the anti-Semitic nature." This propelled Hugh into exploring this subject and having the opportunity to discuss it with this audience.

Was Shakespeare an anti-Semite?  or, was he a Jew himself, as some have suggested?  These views will all be presented and discussed along with the presentation of the film.

This free program is part of the Federation’s Connecting With Community Series and will be followed by a kosher hot lunch. Lunch is a $2 suggested donation for adults over 60 years of age or $7 for all others. Advance reservations are required for lunch and can be made by calling (413) 442-2200 before 9 a.m. on the day of the program.