I. L. Peretz (1852-1915), the father of modern Yiddish literature, was a master storyteller and social critic who advocated a radical shift from religious observance to secular Jewish culture. Wisse explores Peretz's writings in relation to his ideology, which sought to create a strong Jewish identity separate from the trappings of religion.

Acknowledgments
Introduction
1. Reason and Faith
2. Nation and Class
3. Hope and Fear
Notes
Index