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Abstract

This dissertation illustrates how the historical integration of Italian Jews influenced their experiences and responses to the Leggi Razziali (Italian Racial Laws), within the context of Fascist Italy and World War II (1922-1945.) The introduction of antisemitism in official state policy was a public promotion of Italian nationalism, highlighting the disparity between Jewish identity and the prevailing Italian ideals. Sudden persecution prompted Italian Jews to reassess their identities, causing many to strengthen their allegiance to fascism, while others showed solidarity with their Jewish counterparts. This paper argues that the Italian Racial Laws deeply disrupted the lives of the Italian-Jewish community, who had been historically integrated since the emancipation of 1848, consequently resulting in unique traumas and emotional distress for those who were victims. It emphasises the importance of assessing Italian Jews’ experiences independent from the wider European tragedy, due to Italy’s distinct history with fascism, and Mussolini’s long-standing acceptance towards Jews. Focusing on the narrative accounts featured in Alexander Stille’s Benevolence and Betrayal: Five Italian Jewish Families under Fascism, and Primo Levi’s If This is a Man, among others, this dissertation uses written memoirs, letters, and interviews to depict the intricacies of experience: the dehumanisation in Nazi concentration camps, the significance of community bonds in maintaining a sense of will and identity, and the physical and emotional impacts of racism on self-worth.

Course: History - BA (Hons) - C1087

Date Deposited: 2024-09-20

URI/permalink: https://library.port.ac.uk/dissert/dis14450.html