Book Reviews,  Europe,  History,  Jewish History,  Law,  NON FICTION

Why the Dreyfus Affair Matters by Louis Begley ** (of 4)

After briefly summarizing the anti-Semitic atmosphere under which Alfred Dreyfus was falsely accused, convicted, and imprisoned for treason by France military and political authorities, Begley makes a powerful case that current anti-Muslim feelings in the U.S. has led to the comparable incarceration (without trial) of Muslim prisoners in Guantanamo.  Point well taken.  The book is short, but so densely written that it is hard to follow if you are not already familiar with the case.  Keeping the players straight is very hard work, which is rarely a good thing if you want to keep readers reading.