The novel Exodus by Leon Uris intricately weaves together elements of both documentary realism and literary romance, creating a rich tapestry that captures the essence of Jewish resilience and identity. Uris skillfully integrates historical detail and a structured chronology, anchoring the narrative in the real events that shape the lives of his characters. Central to the novel’s thematic heart is the story of the Biblical Exodus, a powerful symbol for the Jewish struggle for freedom that resonates throughout the narrative. This motif is underscored by the use of Biblical quotations at the beginning of each section, highlighting the enduring connection between past and present struggles for liberation.

Uris’s characters are vividly portrayed within the context of significant historical events, illustrating the interplay between individual actions and broader historical forces. For instance, Dov Landau’s transformation is marked by his harrowing experiences in the besieged Warsaw Ghetto and concentration camps, which forge his resolve to fight against the restrictions on Jewish immigration to British-controlled Palestine. Similarly, Ari Ben Canaan's journey reflects the convergence of personal valor and historical necessity. As a British Army captain decorated with the Military Cross, Ari's protest against British policies becomes emblematic of the collective Jewish endeavor to reclaim their homeland. His defiant declaration to the press, "LET MY PEOPLE GO," echoes the Biblical plea, reinforcing the novel’s central theme of freedom.

The narrative also delves into the diverse responses of Jewish characters to their circumstances. Ari's father and Uncle Akiva represent differing paths of resistance; one defends the nascent state through diplomacy and military service, while the other takes a more radical approach by participating in acts of sabotage. Such character arcs illustrate how personal convictions are shaped by historical pressures and, in turn, contribute to the larger narrative of a people striving to "resurrect a nation that has been dead for two thousand years." Through these intricate character portrayals and historical references, Exodus becomes a compelling exploration of identity, sacrifice, and the relentless pursuit of freedom.

Exodus delves into the social history that led to the establishment of modern Israel. The narrative begins through the perspective of an American journalist, allowing readers to witness history as it evolves. Published in 1958, shortly after the Holocaust, Uris dedicates a substantial portion of the novel to exploring the Holocaust’s impact on the lives of his central characters. The story features children who survived concentration camps and are now held in a British refugee camp on Cyprus. They seek permission to travel by boat, named the Exodus, to what was then British-controlled Palestine and is now Israel. The novel frequently references the Biblical Exodus, and as the children aboard the Exodus await approval to depart, they present an appeal to the British authorities using Biblical phrasing: "Let my people go." Exodus draws parallels between the Biblical Exodus, various historical episodes of anti-Semitism, the persecution of Jews in Eastern Europe, and the Nazi genocide attempt, framing these events as the backdrop for the mid-twentieth-century effort to establish an independent Israel.

The United Artists film Exodus was filmed on location in Cyprus and Israel. The screenplay was crafted by Dalton Trumbo, and Otto Preminger served as both director and producer. Paul Newman took on the role of Ari Ben Canaan, while Eva Marie Saint portrayed Kitty Fremont. The cast also featured Lee J. Cobb, Peter Lawford, Sal Mineo, and Ralph Richardson. Exodus runs for over three hours and was perceived as an attempt to capture the novel's inclusivity and deliver a powerful emotional experience. The New York Times ranked the film version of Exodus among the top ten English-language films of 1960. The movie garnered acclaim for its strong performances and was described as a "massive drama of the fight to liberate Israel." It was ultimately regarded as the year's best "blockbuster," despite not being without flaws.