HSY2570 - Modern Israel: Vision and Reality

Leader: Professor Fania Oz-Salzberger

Offered

Clayton Second semester 2007 (Day)

Synopsis

The unit examines social and cultural issues in the history of modern Israel. After introducing Zionist ideologies and the history of the Yishuv, it explores struggles for equality, with particular reference to socialist ideals; the kibbutz movement, and the position of women; the integration of immigrants and the Sephardi experience; changing identities; religious fundamentalism; ethnicity, race and gender, as well as the role of the Holocaust in Israel's identity. The unit will also focus on non-Jewish minorities, especially Palestinians.

Objectives

On the successful completion of this subject students should have gained an understanding of specific issues in the social and cultural history of modern Israel and of conceptual issues involved in the study of national identity.

Assessment

Essay (2000 words): 40%
Tutorial paper (500 words): 15%
Take home exam (1400 words): 30%
Class test (40 minutes): 15%

Contact hours

1 hour lecture and 1 x 2 hour seminar per week

Prohibitions

HSY3570