Trumpeldor in Israeli popular culture: from a legendary national hero to a multifaceted icon

Abstract

ABSTRACT The article examines popular texts that developed in response to the canonical repertoire on Tel Hai and Trumpeldor since the 1970s. In spite of the erosion of the heroic myth, Trumpeldor’s iconic status has continued to inspire the creation of new texts in Israeli popular culture, including songs, jokes, cartoons, satirical programs, and advertisements. Drawing on symbols and motifs associated with the canonical commemoration of Tel Hai, these texts articulate humor and skepticism as well as nostalgia toward the pioneering past and use it as a venue to critically address contemporary trends in Israel life and the politics of the present.