As science fiction became a distinct genre in the twentieth century, many of the early authors and editors came from Jewish backgrounds. This was not just a case of representation, as many of these authors also brought familiar Jewish stories and themes into their work. They found science fiction allowed them to use allegory to discuss sensitive social issues, including the Holocaust, racism, and human dignity in a rapidly changing world.
Chair of the Department of Physics and an Associate Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at the University of Hartford, James McDonald, in conversation with Amy Weiss, the Maurice Greenberg Chair of Judaic Studies at the University of Hartford, will share examples where Jewish culture influenced books, comics, television, and movies.
Monday, March 10, at the Greenberg Center (HJG)
- 6 p.m.–7 p.m.: Self-guided tours of the Museum of Jewish Civilization (located in Mortensen Library, first floor)
- 7 p.m.–8 p.m.: Discussion on Museum Exhibit and the Beginnings of Science Fiction
Please email mgcjs@hartford.edu to register.