The ghost of the Holocaust is ever present in Israel; in the lives and nightmares of the survivors and in the absence of the victims. In this compelling and disturbing analysis; Idith Zertal; a leading member of the new generation of revisionist historians in Israel; considers the ways Israel has used the memory of the Holocaust to define and legitimize its existence and politics. Drawing on a wide range of sources; the author exposes the pivotal role of the Holocaust in Israel's public sphere; in its project of nation building; its politics of power; and its perception of the conflict with the Palestinians. She argues that the centrality of the Holocaust has led to a culture of death and victimhood that permeates Israel's society and self-image. For the updated paperback edition of the book; Tony Judt; the world-renowned historian and political commentator; has contributed a foreword in which he writes of Zertal's courage; the originality of her work; and the "unforgiving honesty with which she looks at the moral condition of her own country."
#373918 in Books Paul Bushkovitch 2011-12-05Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 8.50 x 1.30 x 5.43l; 1.30 #File Name: 0521543231518 pagesA Concise History of Russia
Review
8 of 8 people found the following review helpful. A Good Introduction Lacking DepthBy Matthew GrahamA very good introduction covering many aspects of Russian history that are overlooked in more general accounts; but lacking depth overall. The shifts in the second half of the book between leader-centric; cultural; and imperialist chapters became distracting. In condensing the dense subject; the author seemed to lose the ability to be a storyteller; but nevertheless enticed an interest in finding more sources for specific eras.6 of 6 people found the following review helpful. a very good addition to one's collection of books on RussiaBy Joyce LawrenceI find this history book a very good supplement to the more detailed Orlando Figes histories I've already purchased and read. You don't need to read it cover to cover at one go but it's full of well researched information that you can refer to at will or review as needed. For those only beginning their study of russian history; it's a very clear an easy read that takes you from the founding of Russia as a country all the wayto modern times and the Stalinist period. A good basic book to add to your library and excellent for those planning to travel there.1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. Great 1volume Russian history.By Charles DillinghamAny one going to Russia should read this book. It tells the whole story of Russia in one volume. Very clear and well written. He doesn't make this point; but makes clear that Put in's actions are rooted deep in Russian history.
