In this course we shall examine the founders and masters of cultural Zionism. We will study the important moments in the history of Zionism and the state of Israel through its literature and poetry. In each session we will read together the masterpieces of modern Hebrew poetry, and show how these works of artistic power both reflect and contribute to Jewish history. Among the authors we will explore include Y.L. Gordon, Chaim Nachman Bialik, and Nathan Altherman.