Queer Jewish Journeys in Media

Course Title: Queer Jewish Journeys in Media
Program: Open Circle Jewish Learning: Young Adult/Arts and Culture 
Instructor: Stav Meishar
Day and time: Sundays, 10:00-11:30 am Eastern Time
Dates: Oct 15, 29; Nov 12, 19; Dec 3, 2023 (5 sessions)
Location: Online via Zoom
Fee: $125 Financial scholarships available

From “Angels in America” to “Transparent”, from “Bent” to “Yentl”, we will set out to explore the intersection of Jewish identities and queer identities in fictional characters from the worlds of film and television. Are these identities separate or interconnected? Do they stand in juxtaposition, or do they complement each other? What does it mean for these characters to be Jewish AND Queer, and how does it shape their trajectories?
We will watch excerpts from some of the works above (warning: contains spoilers!) and analyze these questions together using biblical, contemporary and academic texts, layering Jewish history, Jewish thought, midrash and more in our deconstructing and reconstructing of these characters’ journeys. This course aims not only for students to become familiar with diverse examples of queer Jewish characters in film and television, but also, to better equip them in examining these characters’ complex worlds and – through their stories – explore our world today through a queer and Jewish lens. 

Hebrew College Open Circle Jewish Learning classes are for learners of all backgrounds.

Registrants from Canada, UK, EU and Australia: please email Cindy Bernstein to complete your registration. We apologize for the inconvenience.