Language and Eschatology in the Work of Emmanuel Levinas

Abstract

This paper discusses the relationship between language and eschatology in the work of Emmanuel Levinas. It will take into consideration the various concepts of eschatology in his work by regarding his philosophical writings as well as his Talmudic interpretations. As I will show, eschatology plays a significant role in the work of Levinas and is strongly linked to the notion of language. In this context, I would like to underline the relationship between the work of Franz Rosenzweig and Emmanuel Levinas regarding language and eschatology, especially in light of the recently published correspondence between Rosenzweig and Margit (Gritli) Rosenstock-Huessy, the so-called "Gritli" letters. Furthermore, this article aims at explaining the importance of the notion of the voice in order to point out a new interpretation of the saying ( le dire ) and the said ( le dit ) in the later work of Levinas.