The Story of the Jews: Finding the Words, 1000 BC-1492 AD by Simon Schama

The Story of the Jews

Simon Schama presents a richly illustrated cultural history tracing the Jewish experience over three millennia. From ancient tribal origins to the dawn of the New World in 1492 and into modern times, this narrative reveals a unique saga of survival, creativity, and resilience.

The story spans continents and eras—from India to Andalusia, Cairo’s bazaars to Oxford’s streets—uncovering hidden histories: a Jewish kingdom in southern Arabia, a Syrian synagogue’s vibrant murals, and Roman catacombs’ palm groves. Voices range from biblical writers to poets in Muslim Spain.

Scenes include the Talmud burning in Paris, medieval London’s gibbets, Majorcan illuminators, and voyages laden with spices and gems. This is not a tale of isolation but of a Jewish world shaped by interactions with Egyptians, Greeks, Arabs, and Christians.

The Story of the Jews connects a distinct culture to the broader human story.