Leopold Zunz Seen from the End of Emancipation: Max Wiener on the Beginnings of the Science of Judaism

Abstract

Abstract Though the Science of Judaism (Wissenschaft des Judentums) is undoubtedly one of the most prominent achievements of Jewish thought in the nineteenth century, it is, however, also a historical phenomenon which appears to have concluded. It is by Max Wiener’s (1882–1950) thinking that the Science of Judaism considers its own finality by means of critically looking back upon its beginnings. In this respect Wiener’s writings mark the end of the direct influence the work of Leopold Zunz has exercised on the Science of Judaism.