The Instruction of Judeo-Spanish in Europe

This article recounts the development of Sefardic studies in Europe, focusing on the introduction of Judeo-Spanish language and literature courses at universities during the last quarter of the twentieth century. In 1984, Professor Sephiha became the first chaired professor of Judeo-Spanish in the world. During his career at the University of Paris (1967-1991), Professor Sephiha supervised more than 300 thesis papers dealing with Judeo-Spanish linguistics and literature. Aside from his own efforts, Judeo-Spanish courses have been introduced at other universities in France as well as in Germany, Spain, Belgium, Scandinavia, and the former Soviet block countries. As an example of university courses in Judeo-Spanish, Professor Sephiha outlines and analyzes his own course offered at the University of Paris.