Abstract
How to look at objects and how to make use of objects for research in Israeli studies? The course on Israeli material culture takes an ethnographic approach, based on the materiality turn in humanities. It is complementary to the seminars on History of Zionism, History of Israeli and Israeli politics, yet
distinct and independent. While other courses use non-textual material mostly as an illustration, in this seminar, the Israeli material world is in focus. “Things that matter”, including objects usually neglected in the academic discourse, are presented in groupings based on their materiality and lead to a new perception. Therefore, the study of Israeli material culture provides insides insight not only into the Israeli material world, but also modifies the understanding identities of Israel.
Students in this course develop observational, descriptive and analytical skills, deepen their content knowledge of Israeli culture and history and will slightly but meaningfully contribute to the public discourse on Israel.