MHM explores Nazi readings of the Talmud
...Holloway will explore how the Nazis misinterpreted Jewish texts, deliberately altered them and fabricated their own narratives, drawing examples from German propaganda.
The Melbourne Holocaust Museum (MHM) has announced an upcoming lecture titled “Learning Torah with the Fuhrer: Nazi Readings of the Talmud.”
Dr Simon Holloway, manager of adult education and academic engagement at MHM, will lead the session, delving into the Nazi interpretations of the Talmud.
Between 1933 and 1945, German publishing houses produced a significant body of scholarly literature that aimed to discredit and vilify the Talmud. This material, often sordid or scatological in nature, presented a distorted array of beliefs and opinions to the German-speaking public.
At the lecture Holloway will explore how the Nazis misinterpreted Jewish texts, deliberately altered them and fabricated their own narratives, drawing examples from German propaganda.
“We’re looking to diversify our events and programming in 2023 to inspire people to think about the Holocaust and its implications in myriad ways,” said Holloway.
“The Nazi interpretation and misappropriation of Torah is but one of many ways in which they expressed their attitudes towards Jews and Judaism.
“There are so many layers to the Holocaust and to the ways in which people were impacted by it. We’re excited to bring an innovative series of adult programs that make learning about the Holocaust accessible and engaging for everyone.”
Holloway brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the lecture. He previously served as an education officer at the Sydney Jewish Museum, where he conducted seminars on topics such as Nazi racial science, Jewish resistance, and the history of the Holocaust.
With a PhD in Classical Hebrew and Biblical Studies from the University of Sydney and a Masters in Ancient History, Holloway’s current research focuses on identifying allusions to biblical and rabbinic literature in documents produced during the Holocaust.
This event is part of a series curated by Holloway and his team, aiming to connect with adults seeking diverse and engaging ways to learn more about the Holocaust.
The lecture will take place on the evening of June 1 at the Melbourne Holocaust Museum. Tickets $15 or $10 concession. Visit: mhm.org.au/event/learning-torah-with-the-fuhrer-nazi-readings-of-the-talmud or call (03) 9528 1985.
comments