"In the Shadow of the Wall" - Summary

This book tells the poignant and often overlooked story of the Maghrebi Quarter, a vibrant neighborhood that existed for centuries in the shadow of Jerusalem's Western Wall. Author Vincent Lemire painstakingly reconstructs the history of this quarter, from its founding in the 12th century to its abrupt demolition in 1967. Through archival documents, archaeological findings, and poignant resident testimonies, Lemire resurrects a community erased, offering a powerful meditation on the intersection of memory, place, and power.

Key Ideas:

1. The Maghrebi Quarter as a Microcosm of Jerusalem: Lemire demonstrates that the Maghrebi Quarter was not merely a footnote in Jerusalem's history, but rather a microcosm reflecting the city's complex social, religious, and political dynamics. He details the daily lives of the quarter's inhabitants, showcasing their rich cultural traditions, religious practices, and interactions with other communities in Jerusalem. This micro-history provides a unique lens through which to understand broader themes of coexistence and conflict that have shaped the city.

2. The Politics of Erasure: The demolition of the Maghrebi Quarter in 1967 is explored not as an isolated event but as part of a larger pattern of erasure and spatial reconfiguration in Jerusalem. Lemire meticulously documents the political motivations and justifications offered for the quarter's destruction, highlighting how it served to solidify control over a symbolically charged site and reshape the narrative of Jerusalem's history.

3. The Power of Memory: Despite its physical erasure, the Maghrebi Quarter continues to exist in the memories of those who lived there. Lemire gives voice to these memories, drawing upon oral histories and personal accounts to paint a vivid picture of life in the quarter before its destruction. He demonstrates the power of memory to challenge official narratives and preserve the legacy of a place deliberately erased from the physical landscape.

FAQs

Q: Who is this book for?

A: This book appeals to anyone interested in the history of Jerusalem, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, or urban studies. It is also a valuable resource for scholars interested in Middle Eastern history, memory studies, and the politics of space.

Q: What sources did the author use?

A: Lemire draws on an impressive range of sources, including Ottoman archives, Israeli state archives, Red Cross records, Muslim pious foundation documents, archaeological reports, and oral histories from former residents of the Maghrebi Quarter.

Q: Does the book take a position on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict?

A: While Lemire provides a nuanced historical account of the Maghrebi Quarter's destruction, which occurred in the context of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, he does not offer explicit political endorsements. The book focuses on presenting a meticulously researched history and allowing readers to draw their own conclusions.