Eric Nelson: Hebraism, Monarchy, and the American Revolution

Houghton75

In this episode of Houghton75, we speak with Eric Nelson, Robert M. Beren Professor of Government at Harvard, to discuss the surprising impact of John Milton and a set of once forgotten rabbinical texts on the formation of the government of the United States. The story starts with Wilhelm Schickard, a Christian Hebraist, monarchist, and the most important early modern political theorist you’ve never heard of, who in the early 17th century set out to compile all rabbinic references to monarchy. Schickard’s book is in our current exhibition, where it can be viewed through April 22, 2017. Find out more about the exhibition and Houghton Library’s 75th anniversary celebrations at http://houghton75.org/hist-75h
Transcript and detailed music notes: http://wp.me/p7SlKy-ns

Music

The Boston Camerata. Anne Azéma, artistic director
http://www.bostoncamerata.org/

Recording from Rosh Hashanah at the Park Avenue Synagogue, New York City
Cantor Azi Schwartz, voice
Colin Fowler and the PAS choir, music
Doug Yoel, recording