By situating Hebrew textbooks for adults within their historical and social contexts, this lecture sheds light on the intricate relationship between pedagogy, national identity, and the challenges faced by immigrants adapting to a new homeland.

Anthroposophy, the alternative spiritual movement founded in 1913 by Austrian Esotericist Rudolf Steiner, has become a significant presence in contemporary Israeli society. Two branches of the Anthroposophical society operate in Israel, along with an Anthroposophical Kibbutz in the upper Galilee. Waldorf education, based on Steiner’s pedagogical principles, is highly popular, with hundreds of Waldorf kindergartens, schools and training centers across the country. Additionally, several Anthroposophical remedial homes and villages support people with special needs.

What emotional traits are essential for building a nation? More broadly, are there such things as 'national emotions,' and if so, what are they? In this lecture, I will explore these questions by analysing the Zionist case through the lens of the history of emotions. I will examine emotions where the national dimension is evident, such as honour and love of the homeland, alongside emotions that may seem less directly national, like fear and happiness.