Identity/Crisis

A Yiddish Renaissance: Language, Memory, and Modern Jewish Life — with Rukhl Schaechter (Re-run)

Identity/Crisis

Show Notes

Did Yiddish ever really die?

On this re-release of Identity/Crisis, Yehuda Kurtzer sits down with Rukhl Schaechter, editor of the Yiddish Forverts, to explore the surprising renaissance of the Yiddish language—from new dictionaries and online media to Duolingo learners and Hasidic vernacular. Together they discuss what is drawing people back to the language, how Yiddish carries culture across generations, and why so many Jews are using it to seek connections to their roots in a moment of renewed searching.

You can now sponsor an episode of Identity/Crisis. Click HERE to learn more.

JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST FOR MORE HARTMAN IDEAS

More from Identity/Crisis

Oct 20, 2026

In an age of rising hate speech, can liberalism protect the Jews?

Oct 13, 2026

With Israel's elections just weeks away, what vision for the country's future will ultimately prevail?

Oct 6, 2026

Three years after October 7, what are Israel’s possibilities for healing, renewal, and a different future?

Sep 29, 2026

What does the rise in settler violence in the West Bank reveal about the future of Israel?

Sep 22, 2026

Are religious liberty and liberal democracy a natural match or are they destined to be in conflict?

See all episodes →