Reuben Sachs

By Amy Levy

Book Overview

Amy Levy's "Reuben Sachs; a sketch" offers a compelling glimpse into Jewish life in 19th-century London. This Victorian era novel, a work of literary and historical fiction, provides insightful social commentary on the experiences of Jews in England. Set against the backdrop of London's vibrant yet complex society, the story explores themes relevant to its time and still resonant today. "Reuben Sachs; a sketch" provides a window into a specific moment in history, inviting readers to consider the nuances of identity and belonging. Rediscover this thought-provoking novel and experience a powerful narrative that transcends its historical setting. This meticulously prepared print edition ensures the preservation of Levy's work for all who appreciate classic literature exploring the intricacies of Jewish life.

This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it.

This work is in the public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work.

Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1023584700
• ISBN13: 9781023584708
• Release Date: March 2025
• Publisher: Anson Street Press
• Length: 104 Pages
• Weight: 0.72 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.3" x 6.1" x 9.2"

Customer Reviews

A strange and fascinating book

When you read nineteenth-century fiction, you sometimes encounter prose that's not politically correct. If you love the period, you put up with it. In this case, I decided to overlook the stereotypes and enjoy the story. The story is simple but compelling. Reuben Sachs and Judith Quixano (both Jewish) love each other deeply, but he's determined to rise in politics. Judith has no money to speak of, and no social status. She can't further his ambition. The portrayal of their passion, and of Judith's strength of character in particular, is quite poignant. There's a message here for everyone about the way life unfolds, and what really matters in the end. That's the good news. The bad news is that author Amy Levy, although herself Jewish, caricatures Jewish society and shows contempt for the "tribal foibles" of Jews. In the introduction, the editor tries to explain away Levy's prejudice against her own people - but the argument is pretty convoluted. To me it seems more likely that Levy's personal issues embittered her; she committed suicide at the age of 27. The Victorian Anglo-Jewish press, not surprisingly, decried Reuben Sachs. Yet Oscar Wilde considered it a classic. Who's right? Probably Oscar Wilde, but you be the judge.