Upcoming Class Fall 2023


Yiddish Folklore & Culture


Instructor: Natan M. Meir 

Lorry I. Lokey Professor of Judaic Studies and Academic Director of the Harold Schnitzer Family Program in

Judaic Studies at Portland State University, Portland, Oregon.


Thursdays from 7:00-9:00 PM

Sept. 7, 14, 21, 28

Oct. 12, 19, 26

Nov. 2, 9, 16

All classes will be conducted online.

The Yiddish language is a fusion of Germanic, Hebraic, and Slavic elements that was the vernacular of Jews in central and eastern Europe for hundreds of years, and continues to be the mother tongue of many Jews today. Over the centuries, a rich folklore developed in Yiddish that includes stories, songs, curses, magic, and religious rituals and objects. In addition to exploring this treasure trove of folk material, we will also examine some essential linguistic and cultural components of Yiddish and several great literary works – including short stories by I. L. Peretz and Isaac Bashevis Singer – that draw on the Yiddish folkloristic tradition. No prior acquaintance with Yiddish required.


Note that this class will run from 7-9 PM, half an hour earlier than the usual Delve Deeper courses. 


Tuition is $250 for the semester.


Partial and full scholarships are available!

Please do not let cost be a barrier!

Contact Morty Miller or the rabbi of a sponsoring synagogue about the discounts.

Flyer-DelveDeeper-YiddishFolklore with Links.pdf