The Golem (Wolff)
by H. Leivick

Name: The Golem (Wolff)
Brand: H. Leivick
SKU: 9780822218999
Rating: 3.48 (29 reviews)

The Golem (Wolff) Book Cover — The Golem (Wolff) Cover

Highlights

Small Cast

Female

Male

120 minsUnit Set/Multiple SettingsEastern European

What readers are saying

Readers have mixed feelings about the abridgement of The Golem. While some appreciate its suitability for educational purposes, others are disappointed that it is not a complete version of the original play by Leivick. Many find the focus on a cautionary tale of cultural significance compelling, but others note the loss of depth due to the shortening.

Good for educational useEngaging cautionary taleAffordable abridged versionNot a complete workFeels shortened and simplified

Synopsis

A classic of the Yiddish theatre.

Weary of the senseless persecution of his people, the Rabbi of 16th century Prague creates a clay giant, a Golem.

A strangely tormented and loving creature, the Golem is meant to be only a defender.

Soon, however, he kills the tryant Tadeus and then, confused at being rejected by the Rabbi, he turns against the people of the ghetto.

At last the Rabbi, who has impatiently sent away the Messiah in favor of force, realizes "you cannot make a weapon and teach it not to fight.

In a scene of great tenderness, he returns his creature to dust.

When this adaptation was presented in New York, Walter Kerr called it "Spellbinding.

Unbearably touching in its earthiness, its candor, and its unflinching tragic sense."

Press Reviews

"A fabulous tale, excitingly staged—its power comes from the stunning reality the play reflects.” —The New York Times. “A monster hit: makes us think and feel…A powerful, thoughtful, gripping, disturbing production.” —New York Post. “Daring, stirring, eloquent…Accomplishes something that few contemporary productions even attempt: It teaches us about the world we live in. New York is lucky to have this fascinating show.” —Time Out New York. ”Reverberates with the latest headlines…The play's power resides in its evocations.“ —Village Voice. ”Still resonates today…Addresses religious intolerance, the longing for peace and the necessity of war."
— Newsday (NY)