Jewish Presence in T.S. Eliot and Franz Kafka

Analyzes the importance and the literary and moral implications of the antisemitic component in Eliot's poetry and prose published between 1918-35. Places it within the context of American antisemitic and racist prejudices in the cultural elite of New England and the Midwest, and of anti-Jewish stereotypes in English literature. Discusses the antisemitic elements in works by other American writers molded in the same tradition, especially Henry Adams (1838-1918). Asserts that the Jews represent, in Eliot's vision, the negative aspects of modern civilization. Notes that explicit antisemitism disappeared from his writings after 1935, but he never reevaluated or expressed regret for his previous anti-Jewish leanings.