Yale French Studies, Number 141: Claude Lanzmann after Shoah

The 141st volume of Yale French Studies explores the life and work of Claude Lanzmann after his masterpiece, Shoah, through a consideration of his late films and memoir. The essays show that Lanzmann's late films and writing stand as something more than mere footnotes to his 1985 masterpiece, confronting the challenge of representing the Holocaust and living in its aftermath.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 200 pages
Publication date: 10 January 2023
Publisher: Yale University Press

This comprehensive volume of Yale French Studies delves into the life and remarkable work of Claude Lanzmann, following the release of his groundbreaking masterpiece, Shoah, in 1985. The book explores the diverse paths Lanzmann took after this pivotal moment in his career, shedding light on his late films and memoir.

The volume begins with an insightful introduction that provides a comprehensive overview of Lanzmann's life and artistic journey. It highlights his unwavering commitment to documenting the Holocaust and its aftermath, as well as his innovative approach to filmmaking.

The subsequent chapters delve into the analysis of Lanzmann's late films, which include Tsahal (1994), A Visitor from the Living (1997), Sobibor, October 14, 1943, 4 p.m. (2001), Light and Shadows (2008), The Karski Report (2010), The Last of the Unjust (2013), Napalm (2017), and Four Sisters (2018). Each film is examined in depth, exploring its themes, style, and historical significance.

In addition to the analysis of Lanzmann's films, the volume includes an English translation of his last major interview, "Self-Portrait at Ninety." This interview provides a revealing glimpse into Lanzmann's thoughts, experiences, and reflections on his life and work.

The original essays collected in this volume showcase the profound impact of Lanzmann's late films and writing. They offer fresh perspectives on the challenges of representing the Holocaust and its aftermath, employing a variety of approaches and methodologies. The authors engage with questions of cinematic transmission, historical accuracy, and the ethical implications of filmmaking in this context.

Through their insightful analysis, the authors demonstrate that Lanzmann's late films and writing stand as something more than mere footnotes to his 1985 masterpiece. They argue that these works continue to wrestle with critical issues of cinematic transmission, the relationship between film, history, and testimony, and the enduring impact of the Holocaust on individuals and society.

This volume is a valuable contribution to the study of Lanzmann and his work, providing a comprehensive and insightful exploration of his life and artistic legacy. It will appeal to scholars, students, and anyone interested in the history, politics, and culture of the Holocaust and its aftermath.

Dimension: 235 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780300262216