Yiddish A Survey and a Grammar, Second Edition

Yiddish: A Survey and a Grammar, Second Edition by S.A. Birnbaum is published by University of Toronto Press and was released on January 1, 2016. This comprehensive work, spanning 447 pages, offers an in-depth exploration of the Southern Yiddish dialect and pronunciation, which is predominantly used by native speakers today. It also addresses Northern Yiddish and Standard Yiddish, commonly associated with secular and academic contexts. The book includes a rich collection of Yiddish prose and poetry, showcasing literary examples from the medieval to modern periods across Europe.

In this second edition, readers will find valuable updates, including three new introductory essays by prominent Yiddish scholars, a corrected text, and an expanded bibliography. This edition aims to serve students, teachers, and Yiddish speakers, providing a thorough understanding of the language and its cultural significance. The work is particularly relevant for those interested in foreign language study, Jewish history, and literary criticism, making it a significant resource for anyone engaged in the study of Yiddish and its literature.