I. L. Peretz and the Making of Modern Jewish Culture, Wisse Ruth R.

I. L. Peretz (1852�1915), the father of modern Yiddish literature, was a master storyteller and social critic who advocated a radical shift from religious observance to secular Jewish culture. Wisse explores Peretz�s writings in relation to his ideology, which sought to create a strong Jewish identity separate from the trappings of religion.

Acknowledgments
Introduction
1. Reason and Faith
2. Nation and Class
3. Hope and Fear
Notes
Index