Hagadah shel Pesach. Plugah Eretz-Yisraelit LiMedidah.

(HAGADAH).

Italy

1946

Hebrew text with menu in Yiddish. Amusing cartoon illustrations, many of a contemporary nature.

Most original production issued for the Jewish soldiers of the Palestine Field Surveying Corps 524, attached to the British Army in Italy. Abridged traditional text with much parody included. Alongside the Hagadah liturgy appear original ditties, reflecting upon the serviceman’s experiences, especially in relation to British cultural and military norms. Particularly engaging is the closing song, a mock version of “Chad Gadya” (One Goat) here rendered “Chad Chayala” (One Soldier), recounting the tribulations of the returning soldier seeking a flat in Tel-Aviv and the endless bureaucracy awaiting him.