The Testing of Hanna Senesh

by Ruth Whitman

A series of poems and prose passages recreating the last nine months of Hannah Senesh, who was executed at the age of 23 for her efforts to liberate Hungary and save its Jewish population from the Nazis. A chapter on the historical background, written by Livia Rothkirchen, is also included.

Genres: Poetry

120 pages, Paperback

First published October 1, 1986

Reviews

[Van Howell · Rating 5 out of 5]

This powerful and memorable little book has the authority, austerity and incandescence of Scripture, which perhaps it already is. With heartrending immediacy, Whitman tells the true story of a Jew who voluntarily faces torture and death in the custody of an army of occupation—and who senses that this excruciating, sordid and humiliating defeat is not just the routine termination of a minor trouble-maker, but a morally necessary self-sacrifice whose full meaning may one day be revealed to the world.
What's the book's message? Somehow, Whitman manages to transcend politics, history, and maybe even religion. You'll love it if you believe the legacy of pioneering prewar Zionists and freedom fighters like Senesh is a beautiful homeland and vibrant democracy, heroically holding its own against a hostile world. But you'll love it no less, maybe more, if you feel the martyred Razan al-Najjar could be Senesh's reincarnation.
The candle Whitman lights burns for life and for love; but it's not pale or pretty or trite. Agonizing death can be an integral part of real life. Cold fury can be an expression of true love. It takes a big heart to contain and communicate these contradictions.
I knew Ruth Whitman and her second husband Morton Sacks for many years. Both were fascinating and lovable characters. I first read The Testing of Hanna Senesh about thirty years ago, and was deeply moved. Then the book was lost or given away, and to replace it I bought her anthology—but its abridgments seemed flat; I don't recommend it. Finally I was able to find another copy of the original book—which is even better than I remembered. It's a treasure.