On the Jewish question in Bolesław Prus’s novel The Doll Cover Image

Jeszcze o kwestii żydowskiej w Lalce Bolesława Prusa
On the Jewish question in Bolesław Prus’s novel The Doll

Author(s): Tomasz Sobieraj
Subject(s): Language and Literature Studies, Studies of Literature, Polish Literature, Sociology of Literature
Published by: Uniwersytet Adama Mickiewicza
Keywords: assimilation; equality; anti-Semitism; hostility; anticipation of a pogrom

Summary/Abstract: Lalka, the most famous novel by Bolesław Prus, published in 1890, was concerned with many aspects of the Jewish question. The author portrayed a few phases in relations between Poles and Jews. The first phase was the short epoch of equality and fraternity before the January Uprising. Then came the period of the assimilation of Jews. Finally, Prus observed a growing process of hostility towards Jews. On the whole, anti-Semitic views were criticized by him both in Lalka, and in his journalism. Yet, on the other hand, it must be acknowledged that Prus was often inclined to perceive Jews in stereotypical ways. Lalka presents an economic triumph of Jews over impractical and inept Poles. Anti-Semitic public feelings that were shown in the novel anticipated the Warsaw pogrom of Jews that took place at the end of 1881.

  • Issue Year: 2021
  • Issue No: 13
  • Page Range: 67-80
  • Page Count: 14
  • Language: Polish
Toggle Accessibility Mode