Jay Geller Book order

The book explores the complex relationship between modernizing German-speaking cultures and their response to Judaism as a perceived threat. It focuses on the representation of the Jewish body and the fetishization of its parts, highlighting how these practices reflect deeper societal anxieties. By examining these interactions, the author argues that the evolution of German-identified modernity is intricately linked to the ongoing discourse surrounding the Jewish Question, revealing the tensions within cultural identity and representation.

Focusing on Freud's exploration of Jewish identity, the book analyzes how circumcision serves as a pivotal symbol in his work, linking it to the development of psychoanalysis. Through an examination of Freud's letters, case studies, and his writings on religion, the author reveals how this fetishized signifier shapes Freud's understanding of difference and knowledge within the context of Jewish identity. The study highlights the intricate connections between Freud's personal and professional life, offering insights into the foundations of his theories.