Sarah Imhoff tells the story of the queer, disabled, Zionist writer Jessie Sampter (1883-1938), whose body and life did not match typical Zionist ideals and serves as an example of the complex relationships between the body, queerness, disability, religion, and nationalism.
Exploring the unique construction of American Jewish manhood, Sarah Imhoff reveals how early 20th-century Jewish men shaped their identities through a blend of cultural influences, including the pioneer spirit, immigration experiences, Hollywood, and the YMCA. Rather than conforming to traditional American masculinity, they developed a gentler, more cultivated version that reflected their distinct experiences. By examining historical contexts, Imhoff highlights how Jewish perspectives on masculinity diverged from those of Protestants and other religious communities, enriching the understanding of American Jewish identity.
Focusing on the challenges faced by women and nonbinary individuals in Jewish studies, this book combines quantitative data and personal narratives to highlight institutional and individual barriers. The authors analyze women's representation in academic publishing and conference panels while tracing the field's historical development and its ties to traditional religious studies. They address issues of harassment and gender discrimination among scholars and propose a reparative path to foster a more inclusive and equitable environment in Jewish studies.