Ageing in Medieval Jewish Culture

This is a seminal study of cultural attitudes to old age among Jews of the medieval Mediterranean and Near Eastern regions. It provides a nuanced portrait of aging as both a lived reality and a cultural paradigm in medieval Jewish society, drawing on a range of literary genres and scholarly disciplines.

Format: Hardback
Length: 448 pages
Publication date: 01 July 2022
Publisher: Liverpool University Press

This groundbreaking work delves into the profound cultural attitudes towards old age among Jews residing in the medieval Mediterranean and Near Eastern regions. Extensively researched and meticulously written, it captivates scholars from diverse disciplines and appeals to a broader audience. While the primary focus lies in the examination of Jewish society and culture, comparative perspectives from the Muslim world, Spain, Provence, and other regions within the Arabic Andalusian cultural orbit shed valuable light on the social history of ageing.

The study employs a wide range of literary genres and scholarly disciplines, including philosophy, theology, ethics, law, biblical commentary, Hebrew poetry, medical literature, and a wealth of marriage contracts, personal letters, and family and communal records from the Cairo Genizah. Through this comprehensive approach, the author paints a nuanced and intricate portrait of ageing as both a lived reality and a cultural paradigm within medieval Jewish society.

In the first chapter, the author establishes the historical context by exploring the shifting attitudes towards old age in different periods and regions. They examine the biblical and rabbinic perspectives on ageing, as well as the cultural and societal norms that shaped these attitudes. The author also discusses the role of the family in caring for the elderly and the significance of intergenerational relationships in maintaining a sense of belonging and support.

The second chapter delves into the literary and artistic representations of old age in medieval Jewish society. The author analyzes various literary genres, such as biblical exegesis, poetry, and medical literature, to understand how older individuals were depicted and perceived. They also explore the role of ageing in Jewish religious practices and rituals, such as the celebration of bar mitzvahs and the observance of anniversaries.

In the third chapter, the author examines the ethical and legal considerations surrounding old age. They explore the legal rights and responsibilities of older individuals, as well as the social and economic implications of ageing. The author also discusses the challenges faced by older individuals in maintaining their independence and dignity, particularly in the context of poverty and discrimination.

The fourth chapter explores the social and cultural implications of ageing in medieval Jewish society. The author examines the role of older individuals in the community, including their contributions to education, commerce, and religious leadership. They also explore the impact of ageing on family structures and relationships, as well as the changing expectations and responsibilities of younger generations towards their elders.

The fifth chapter examines the medical and physiological aspects of ageing in medieval Jewish society. The author discusses the prevalence of age-related diseases and disorders, as well as the medical treatments and remedies available to older individuals. They also explore the role of medicine in shaping perceptions of old age and the ways in which older individuals sought to maintain their health and vitality.

In the final chapter, the author reflects on the broader significance of this study for understanding cultural attitudes towards old age in the medieval Mediterranean and Near Eastern regions. They argue that the study provides valuable insights into the complex interplay between religion, society, and the individual experience of ageing. The author also suggests that the study has implications for contemporary discussions about ageing and the challenges faced by older individuals in modern societies.

In conclusion, this seminal study of cultural attitudes towards old age among Jews of the medieval Mediterranean and Near Eastern regions is a groundbreaking work that offers a wealth of insights and perspectives. Through its rigorous research, accessible writing, and comparative framework, it contributes to our understanding of the complex and multifaceted nature of ageing as both a lived reality and a cultural paradigm. This study will appeal to scholars across a range of disciplines, as well as to the broader public, and will undoubtedly inspire further research and discussion on this important topic.

Dimension: 239 x 163 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781800348516