Semites and Anti-Semites – Bernard Lewis

In Semites and Anti-Semites, historian Bernard Lewis explores the complex historical, cultural, and social origins of anti-Semitism. Examining the distinctions between Semitic peoples and the persistent prejudices they have faced, Lewis traces the evolution of anti-Jewish sentiment from ancient times through the modern era.

The book delves into the ways religious, economic, and political factors have shaped perceptions of Jews, highlighting how myths, stereotypes, and fears contributed to systemic discrimination and persecution. Lewis also examines the consequences of these attitudes, including the rise of modern anti-Semitism and its devastating impact on Jewish communities.

With clarity and scholarly insight, Lewis navigates sensitive and often controversial topics, providing readers with a nuanced understanding of the historical roots of prejudice. Semites and Anti-Semites is both an essential resource for students of history and a compelling reflection on the enduring consequences of intolerance, prejudice, and the human capacity for bias.