LFU:online

Expanding the traditional perspective, gaining insight into the global interconnections of historical developments.

In the spring of 1948, the State of Israel was established. Although the territory of the new state had always been small, since its beginnings it has played a central role in world politics, and its existence and actions evoke extreme emotional reactions. In this course we will explore major aspects in the history of Israel and the ways they influence its cultural life. Throughout the course we will discuss complexities and paradoxes that have accompanied Israeli society from its beginnings down to the post October 7 months. Some of the major themes will be: the relation between religion and state, the interactions of military and civil life, the place of the kibbutz movement within society, the Israeli family and the place of women in society, and the meaning of war. Along with readings in recent scholarly works in the field of Israel Studies, we will also analyze film sequences and chapters of major works of Israeli literature.

Lecture and discussion

Written examination in the penultimate working session 

This course is also considered Extra-European History I or II for students of the curriculum BA History (2009). In this case, a reduced workload applies.