Introductory Topics in Middle East and North African Studies (290-4-2)

Topic

Jews and Arabs in Palestine/The Land of Israel, 18

Instructors

Maayan Hilel
Crowe Hall, 5-155
Office Hours: W 5:00 – 6:00

Meeting Info

Kresge Centennial Hall 2-319: Mon, Wed 3:30PM - 4:50PM

Overview of class

Arabs and Jews in Palestine/The Land of Israel

This course examines the social, cultural, and everyday interactions between Arabs and Jews in Palestine/the Land of Israel from the late nineteenth century until 1948. Moving beyond dominant narratives centered on rivalry, violence, and political conflict, the course adopts a relational history approach to recover a more nuanced understanding of this highly contested historical period. Focusing on day-to-day encounters and interactions, students explore shared experiences, intersecting identities, cultural exchanges and competitions and frictions that shaped Arab-Jewish reciprocal relations. Course topics include life in mixed cities; education systems; business collaborations; tourism; labor unions and political organizations; leisure spaces; and other sites of intercommunal contact. Drawing on a wide range of primary historical sources, students critically analyze how Arabs and Jews navigated diverse public spaces, illuminating often-overlooked dimensions of their deeply intertwined histories.

Learning Objectives

By the end of the course, students will be able to:
• Demonstrate an understanding of the complex and multifaceted social, cultural, and political relations between Arab and Jewish communities in Palestine/LI during a formative historical period.
• Identify and assess major scholarly debates, methodological approaches, and recent historiographical developments in the study of Palestine/Land of Israel.
• Critically analyze primary historical sources, situating them within their historical contexts.
• Critically read and assess secondary scholarship, identifying central arguments, methodology, and the use of evidence.

Evaluation Method

Class Participation: 20%
In-Class Multiple Choice Quizzes (10 in total): 25%
Mid-term Essay: 30%
Final project (presentation and podcase episode): 30%

Class Materials (Required)

Materials will be provided by instructor.

Class Attributes

Historical Studies Foundational Discipline

Enrollment Requirements

Enrollment Requirements: Pre-registration is reserved for MENA Students.