This course will delve into the complex interplay between Holocaust inversion and Christian antisemitism, examining their historical roots, contemporary manifestations, and impact on society. We will analyze the phenomenon of Holocaust inversion and examine the ways in which Holocaust history is being distorted to vilify Jews and Israel. Drawing on historical, theological, and literary perspectives, this course aims to deepen participants’ understanding of these troubling phenomena and explore strategies for combatting them.
Session 1: Historical Foundations of Christian Antisemitism
In Session 1, we will explore the historical origins of Christian antisemitism, tracing its roots from ancient times to the present day. We will also analyze key historical events and tropes—such as the Crusades, Inquisition, and Blood Libel—and their role in perpetuating antisemitism.
Session 2: The Holocaust: History, Memory, and Distortion
In Session 2, we will survey the history of the WWII Holocaust, including its origins, progression, and aftermath. We will also discuss the significance of Holocaust memory and commemoration in contemporary society and investigate instances of Holocaust distortion and inversion, exploring how these narratives are constructed and disseminated.
Session 3: Holocaust Inversion and Contemporary Antisemitism
In Session 3, we will examine the phenomenon of Holocaust inversion in the context of contemporary antisemitism, including its prevalence in academic discourse. We will also analyze case studies of Holocaust inversion, focusing on specific examples and their implications for Jewish communities and the broader society. In addition, we will discuss the role of social media platforms in amplifying and disseminating antisemitic rhetoric.
Session 4: Reflections and Resolutions: Confronting Holocaust Inversion in the Christian Academy and Beyond
In Session 4, we will explore strategies for combating Holocaust inversion and antisemitism at individual, institutional, and societal levels. We will also discuss the importance of education, interfaith dialogue, and advocacy in challenging antisemitic attitudes and promoting empathy and understanding.
Spring 2025
Online
4
April 22, April 29, May 6, May 13 2025
Tuesdays, 11:00AM-12:00PM EST
Dyanne K. Martin earned her PhD in Cultures, Languages, and Literatures and is an ISGAP Research Fellow, as well as a former student-scholar at Cornell University’s School of Criticism and Theory and a scholar-in-residence at the University of Miami’s Holocaust Studies Institute. A native of Jamaica, she embodies a multicultural background that fosters her deep interest in diasporic literatures across the Americas and leads her to examine overlooked spaces of healing and reconciliation in ethnic studies and conflicts. In addition to her work in Holocaust literature and contemporary antisemitism, other areas of her scholarship include classical rhetoric, visual rhetoric, and semiotics. Her publications address identity performance in both Jewish and black communities, notions of voice in slave narratives, and immigrant experiences in Caribbean literature. Dr. Martin has a dual appointment as an assistant professor of both English and Education at Wheaton College. She has previously been awarded Professor of the Year and the John S. and James L. Knight Endowed Teaching Chair.
