The Israeli souvenir

Abstract

Abstract The souvenir as a “symbolic unit,” a “medium” in the “tourist art system,” can be read as a “text” in Geertz's sense of the term. This paper examines the souvenir's text and context—its production, authentication, display, and sale, as well as the ideology of the selling agent. It is contented that this complex expresses the central themes at the heart of Israeli society, concluding that souvenirs reflect social processes, interests, and power relations. Souvenirs perceived as authentic reminders of a particular place are really powerful signifiers of ideological meanings.