Cecil Roth (1899 – 1970) was a prolific, popular and eminently readable Jewish historian. He was a collector of Judaica as well as of arcane bits of Jewish history. His first love was Italian Jewry, and the volumes he wrote on that subject are monuments to his erudition. Roth’s scholarship was encyclopedic: over 700 publications bear his distinct style and mastery of the English language. The 16-volume Encyclopedia Judaica, which he edited, was the crowning achievement of his legacy. Sadly, the first volume was printed the day following his death.
This collection of essays is unique for two reasons. Firstly, the essays included appeared in the London Jewish Chronicle, mostly during the 30’s, and were intended for a general audience. Hence, they are unencumbered by scholarly notes. Secondly, they are grouped thematically around the Jewish festivals. Roth weaves a tapestry of history, folklore, and interesting bits of information about the Jewish holidays. We read about strange Purim customs, Jews in Salonica and Malta and a host of unusual celebrations in different communities.
This volume will provide much joy to Roth’s admirers and will make devotees of those who have never had the pleasure of reading his essays.
