The Wicked Son

Anti-Semitism, Self-hatred, and the Jews

By David Mamet | Publisher: Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group

About the book

David Mamet's interest in anti-Semitism is not limited to the modern face of an ancient hatred but encompasses as well the ways in which many Jews have internalized that hatred. Using the metaphor of the Wicked Son at the Passover seder (the child who asks, \"What does this story mean to you?\") Mamet confronts what he sees as an insidious predilection among some Jews to exclude themselves from the equation and to seek truth and meaning anywhere--in other religions, political movements, mindless entertainment--but in Judaism itself. He also explores the ways in which the Jewish tradition has long been and still remains the Wicked Son in the eyes of the world. Written with the searing honesty and verbal brilliance that is the hallmark of Mamet's work, The Wicked Son is a powerfully thought-provoking look at one of the most destructive and tenacious forces in contemporary life.

Editions of The Wicked Son

Hardcover
ISBN 9780805242072
Paperback
ISBN 9780805211573
EBook
ISBN 9780805242744

Read an Excerpt

David Mamet's interest in anti-Semitism is not limited to the modern face of an ancient hatred but encompasses as well the ways in which many Jews have internalized that hatred. Using the metaphor of the Wicked Son at the Passover seder (the child who asks, \"What does this story mean to you?\") Mamet confronts what he sees as an insidious predilection among some Jews to exclude themselves from the equation and to seek truth and meaning anywhere--in other religions, political movements, mindless entertainment--but in Judaism itself. He also explores the ways in which the Jewish tradition has long been and still remains the Wicked Son in the eyes of the world. Written with the searing honesty and verbal brilliance that is the hallmark of Mamet's work, The Wicked Son is a powerfully thought-provoking look at one of the most destructive and tenacious forces in contemporary life.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is The Wicked Son about?

David Mamet's interest in anti-Semitism is not limited to the modern face of an ancient hatred but encompasses as well the ways in which many Jews have internalized that hatred. Using the metaphor of the Wicked Son at the Passover seder (the child who asks, \"What does this story mean to you?\") Mamet confronts what he sees as an insidious predilection among some Jews to exclude themselves from the equation and to seek truth and meaning anywhere--in other religions, political movements, mindless entertainment--but in Judaism itself. He also explores the ways in which the Jewish tradition has long been and still remains the Wicked Son in the eyes of the world. Written with the searing honesty and verbal brilliance that is the hallmark of Mamet's work, The Wicked Son is a powerfully thought-provoking look at one of the most destructive and tenacious forces in contemporary life.

What core themes, tropes, or subjects are explored in The Wicked Son?

History and Archaeology > History > History: specific events and topics > Social and cultural history

Where can I read a sample of The Wicked Son?

You can read an official preview of the few pages here https://www.book2look.com/book/9780805242072

Is The Wicked Son part of a series, and can it be read as a standalone?

Yes it is a part of series Jewish Encounters Series

Who is/are the Author/s of the book The Wicked Son?

David Mamet

Who is the Publisher of the book The Wicked Son?

Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group

What are the ISBN numbers for the physical and digital editions?

The Wicked Son is available as hardcover(ISBN 9780805242072) and paperback(ISBN 9780805211573) and ebook(ISBN 9780805242744)

Where can I buy The Wicked Son online or support local independent bookshops?

You can buy The Wicked Son from below

Where can I buy The Wicked Son?