Jewish Studies 288 - HISTORY OF ISRAEL

Israel from the pre-state origins of Zionism in the late 19th century to the present. Historical perspectives on ongoing challenges, such as the place of religion in civil life and Israel's relation to world Jewry. The tension-real or imaginary-in the state's definition as both Jewish and democratic. Special attention to contested identities, highlighting differing visions of a Jewish homeland, traditions of dissent and critical self-reflection. Sources include documents, fiction and films.