Bread Givers - Judaism in Bread Givers

Judaism in Bread Givers

In Reb and Sara, the reader can see the clash between traditional and assimilated Jews. Reb Smolinsky represents traditional Eastern European Jews, while Sara represents the Americanized Jews. Reb Smolinsky relies heavily on teachings from the Talmud for his life view and these teachings often make their way directly into the text. Additionally, he often uses the sacred texts to justify his domination of his wife and daughters. There is a particular connection between Bread Givers and the stories of Rabbi Chanina ben Dosa, the Rabbi's wife and the Rabbi's daughter. Reb is clearly associated with Rabbi Chanina ben Dosa and Shenah with the Rabbi's wife. However, while Sarah is clearly associated with the Rabbi's daughter, she is the antithesis of the daughter.