Please join us for an introduction to the language of Judeo-Arabic. All are welcome; no knowledge of Hebrew or Arabic is required.

Between the Middle Ages and the 20th century, Judeo-Arabic was used by more Jewish people, for a longer time, and over a wider area, than any other language. Yet today its existence comes as a surprise, shattering the myth of separation and opposition between Jews and Arabs, Hebrew and Arabic.

This workshop will offer a basic introduction to the language and its history, and challenge the attempted erasure of Judeo-Arabic culture and Jewish Arabs.

Sponsored by the UBC-Jewish Facutly Network event series: Exploring Jewish Identity & Culture.

Audience & Location

• Everyone is welcome to attend this free event.
• Buchanan Tower 726

Speakers

Dr Shamma Boyarin is an associate professor of English, Religious Studies and Medieval Studies at the University of Victoria. He has a PhD in Comparative Literature from University of California, Berkeley, where he also taught Hebrew. His current research and teaching interests include medieval literature, comparative literature, literature and religion, Jewish studies, metal and religion, and the religious roots of antisemitism.