Satan in Goray

Historical Context and Significance

Isaac Bashevis Singer's novel "Satan in Goray," published in 1933, is an important work in Jewish literature. The book describes events in the Jewish town of Goray in Poland in the 17th century, shortly after the Khmelnytsky massacres. At the heart of the plot is the appearance of the false messiah Sabbatai Zevi and his influence on the community. The novel explores themes of religious fanaticism, messianic movements, and their destructive consequences. This work raises questions about faith, hope, and human nature, reflecting the profound cultural and historical upheavals of the Jewish people. The book has had a significant impact on Jewish literature and culture, becoming an important contribution to understanding Jewish history and spiritual quests.