Writing the Philosemitic Novel: Daniel Deronda Revisited

This essay treats George Elliot's Daniel Deronda in the context of European philosemitic discourse, bringing a continental (specifically German) perspective to the gushing reception of the novel on the part of Jewish readers. Going against the grain of revisionist scholars who minimize the centrality and clarity of the "Jewish Question" to Daniel Deronda, this essay argues an apologetic intent lies at the center of the novel. Specifically, the lauding of Ashkenazic Jewry, the affirmation of a Jewish future, the praise of intra-Jewish loyalties, and a generous view of Jewish authenticity mark Daniel Deronda as a landmark in the rehabilitation of European Jewry.