Course begins: Monday, November 3 • 6:45 pm • online
Taught by Dr. Amy K. Milligan, From Sinai to Seinfeld: Jews and Their Jokes, a Melton course presented by United Jewish Federation of Tidewater’s Konikoff Center for Learning, is back by popular demand.
Originally launched in 2021, the course quickly became a community favorite, drawing participants from across Tidewater and beyond. The 10-week series explores Jewish humor as a lens into Jewish history, identity, and values. From biblical times to contemporary pop culture, students examine how jokes reflect the rhythms, concerns, and spirit of the Jewish people.
“Jewish humor is more than just laughter. It’s a way of surviving, connecting, and understanding ourselves,” says Dr. Amy K. Milligan, Batten Endowed Associate Professor of Jewish Studies and Women’s and Gender Studies at Old Dominion University. “This course opens conversations about humor that allow us to better understand the motivations and contexts in which the jokes were written, through which we not only better understand our history but ourselves.”
Melton classes are known for their warm, inclusive environment and intellectually rich content. They offer an opportunity to engage with Jewish ideas in a way that is both accessible and meaningful. There are no tests or grades, just thoughtful conversation and personal growth. Whether new to Jewish learning or a seasoned student, Melton courses meet students where they are.
Participants will explore the comedic contributions of legends such as Fanny Brice, Lenny Bruce, Mel Brooks, Jerry Seinfeld, and Sarah Silverman, while also exploring lesser-known gems that have shaped Jewish humor across generations.
Register at JewishVA.org/Melton, with a special discount code JOKE50 available for early registrants before October 20. Scholarships are available.
For more information, contact Sierra Lautman at slautman@ujft.org or 757-965-6107.