24 pages • 48 minutes read
Philip RothThe Conversion of the Jews
Fiction | Short Story | Adult | Published in 1958A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Essay Topics
Reflect on the relationship of Ozzie to the other characters in “The Conversion of the Jews.” How do these relationships shape the themes of the story?
How is the symbol of light employed in the short story?
How does “The Conversion of the Jews” fit within postmodernism? What characteristics of the movement are expressed in the story?
Select a juxtaposition that Roth employs in “The Conversion of the Jews” and explain how this serves the themes of the short story.
What role does humor play in “The Conversion of the Jews”? Give examples.
What is the relationship between power and organized religion in “The Conversion of the Jews”?
“The Conversion of the Jews” was controversial when it was published in 1958. How do the themes of the story relate to current events? Is this story relevant in the 21st century?
Does the story offer an alternative to the oppressive power structures represented by Rabbi Binder and Mrs. Freedman?
What are Ozzie’s feelings about the Jewish faith aside from his clash with Rabbi Binder? Use the text to support your claims.
How does the language used in the story, whether in dialogue or narration, connect to the thematic underpinnings?
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By Philip Roth
