Issam Nassar's article on the photographic history of Jerusalem really brings a different perspective than a bunch of words of history as Karen Armstrong did. It is amazing how things have changed in the last 100 years through Jerusalem and to look at it through a new lens makes it easier. Everyone always says that a picture is worth a thousand words, and this article couldn't have proven it any more. Instead of writing a bunch of historical names, dates, and places over the last century, these pictures not only show you what is there, but raises so many questions that continues to shape opinions in regards to the history.
The other part of the article talks about how Europeans didn't want people to actually live in Jerusalem...which is odd. As different cultures came through, they joined together and started to make a very unique community. However, Europeans were not fans of this and wanted it for their own natural sights without anyone bothering them. Europeans wanted to keep what they thought was all theirs which brings to mind the question of how they didn't want to give and wanted more for themselves. And the roller coaster of Jerusalem's history continues...
Interesting post, Max. You're right...I think the pictures spoke at least a thousand words, too. I understand about Karen's book being so full of dates and places and names and such...but, how else can all that history be presented? It's truly overwhelming. But I sure do like the shorter reading with some pictures. They spoke out clearly and I think made the article really easier to follow. I also think that was strange about the Europeans not wanting people to actually be considering living there...strange...I wonder what today's pictures say?
ReplyDeleteI think you're post is really interesting and I think you have a point about European attitudes and representations about Jerusalem. It seems as though they wanted to make Jerusalem into something it was not, and by doing so only represent it in a way that were conducive with European values and representation. Its almost like they wanted to be able to look at the pictures and see what they wanted to see, familiar things, but not necessary an accurate depiction of Jerusalem's reality.
ReplyDeleteI agree with you about this reading because a completely different perspective from the ones that Armstrong provided. I think that it is important it to have a base or chronology of facts, dates, and people and then build to ask questions and add in details. Being able to blend fact and opinion isn't always easy but I think that you raise some good critiques and questions.
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