America Quote by Bayard Taylor
“The native Jewish families in Jerusalem, as well as those in other parts of Palestine, present a marked difference to the Jews of Europe and America. They possess the same physical characteristics - the dark, oblong eye, the prominent nose, the strongly-marked cheek and jaw - but in the latter, these traits have become harsh and coarse.”
About This Quote
Source Book: *The Land of the Bible* by Bayard Taylor, 1860
The quote contrasts the physical features of native Jewish families in Jerusalem with those of European and American Jews, noting a perceived harshness in the latter's traits.
In simple terms: Jerusalem Jews look similar but seem harsher than European Jews.
Recognize cultural and environmental influences on appearance.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- historical analysis
- genealogy research
- travel writing
- cultural studies
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How do environment and culture shape physical traits?
- What biases affect our perception of different groups?
The observation may reflect 19th‑century bias and limited understanding of genetic diversity.