This volume investigates the evolving relationship between Jewish history and the construction of historical consciousness within the modern era. Edited by Jonathan Frankel, this collection draws upon the expertise of scholars associated with the Institute of Contemporary Jewry at The Hebrew University of Jerusalem. The text utilizes a series of essays and symposia to analyze how national myths, folk memory, and shifting methodologies have shaped the academic discipline of Jewish historiography from the 19th century to the present day.

Scholars and students of Jewish history recognize this series as a foundational resource for understanding the evolution of historical methodology in the field. Readers frequently note the academic density of the prose, which is intended for researchers and those engaged in advanced historical study.