Introductory Topics in Middle East and North African Studies (290-6-2)

Topic

Jews and Arabs in Hebrew Literature and Culture

Instructors

Guy Ehrlich
Crowe, 5-163
Office Hours: Wednesday 2:00 - 3:00

Meeting Info

Kresge Centennial Hall 2-319: Tues, Thurs 11:00AM - 12:20PM

Overview of class

New title: Jews and Arabs in Hebrew Literature and Culture (in Translation)

This course examines representations of Jews and Palestinians in modern Hebrew literature and culture, exploring how literature, film, and other cultural texts engage with questions of identity, coexistence, and conflict. We will read texts from both canonical and lesser-known Hebrew authors - both Jewish and Palestinian - tracing portrayals of Arab-Jewish relations ranging from writers of the "1948 Generation" to contemporary works and films. Throughout the course, we will analyze how literature and cinema reflect and shape social, political, and historical realities, and explore themes such as nationalism, memory, love (including "complicated" love stories), and trauma. The literary texts and films will be accompanied by academic articles and theoretical texts. No previous knowledge of Hebrew is required! All texts will be read in translation, and all films will include English subtitles.

Learning Objectives

• Examine and interpret literary texts using practices of both close reading and comparative reading
• Critically evaluate and analyze literary, cultural, and theoretical texts
• Define and describe representations of Jews and Arabs in modern Hebrew literature and culture, considering social, cultural, and historical contexts
• Compare and analyze different portrayals of Jewish-Arab relations, identities, and encounters across diverse Hebrew literary texts, films, and cultural production
• Draw connections and correlations between and across literary texts/films
• Develop writing, collaboration, and interpersonal communication skills

Teaching Method

• Class participation
• Discussion
• Lecture

Evaluation Method

Attendance & Class participation: 10%
Final paper: 40%
3 Short quizzes/responses: 30%
1 Long Response Paper: 20%

Class Materials (Required)

Materials will be provided by instructor.

Class Attributes

Literature and Arts Foundational Discipline
Literature & Fine Arts Distro Area