109-003 Introduction to Modern Jewish Culture

This subject is an intensive introduction to contemporary Jewish culture, with an emphasis on the key events, ideas, figures and movements that have shaped Jewish history and Jewish identity. The course presents students with a wide ranging survey of topics, including the traditional sources of Judaism, the formation of Jewish identity, the origins of anti-Semitism, the birth and impact of Zionism, Aliyah and the Jewish community in Palestine, the revival of the Hebrew language, the rise of Nazism and the Holocaust, the establishment of the state of Israel and the social and political factors that shaped early Jewish statehood. Students will encounter a selection of short stories, poems, songs, newspaper articles, critical documents and audio-visual materials to gain a better sociological, cultural, political and literary understanding of the topics explored.

A seminar paper of 1000 words, two essays of 1500 words each, and class participation.

Materials prepared by the department.