A Jewish mother will do everything for her children, but in this case – “everything” included taking on the Holy Roman Emperor himself and building a web of intrigue that spanned continents and several royal and noble houses. This is the story of Gracia Mendes Nasi, otherwise known as Dona Gracia.


Kafka’s Secrets: The Missing Page of “The Castle”
A page torn from the manuscript of Franz Kafka’s “The Castle” has been revealed for the first time. What is written on that missing page? Who tore it out? Why would anyone want to keep it hidden?

Ghosts, Evil Spirits and Kabbalistic Teachings: A Very Ashkenazi Christmas
“Nittel Nacht” is an Ashkenazi Jewish term for Christmas Eve. Although it is certainly not a Jewish holiday, it has, in very particular Jewish communities, become a night marked by strange and even provocative customs. Where did these Nittel Nacht traditions come from, and how are they connected to historical attempts to protect oneself from the forces of darkness?

Another Trial: A Kafkaesque Love Triangle
Despite his romantic and tortured image, Franz Kafka’s attitude towards women had its darker aspects. Who would have guessed that the tangled romantic triangle between Kafka, his fiancée Felice Bauer and her good friend Grete Bloch would produce one of the greatest literary classics of all time?

My White Dress: Why Do Jews Wear White on Holidays?
During the holiday season, most of us will likely arrive at synagogue or at the family meal dressed in white, praying that no red wine or beet juice gets sprayed on our dresses and shirts. In fact, some Jewish men will be showing up at synagogue wearing a striking white robe – an introduction to the “kittel”.