Jewish Daily Life in Medieval Northern Europe, 1080-1350: A Sourcebook

This sourcebook provides translations of primary sources written by or about medieval Jews, offering insight into their daily lives, practices, and relationships with their Christian neighbors, local authorities, and the Church. It covers various topics such as culinary preferences, sexual lives, garments, objects, and communal buildings. The contributions of the Beyond the Elite: Jewish Daily Life in Medieval Europe research team enhance the understanding of Jewish life in medieval Europe.

Format: Paperback / softback
Publication date: 30 November 2022
Publisher: Medieval Institute Publications

This comprehensive sourcebook aims to provide students with an immersive exploration into the daily lives of Jewish communities residing in the German Empire, northern France, and England from the 11th to the mid-14th centuries. Comprising a collection of translated primary sources authored by or about medieval Jews, each source is accompanied by an introduction that contextualizes historical events and provides insights into the broader societal context. By delving into these sources, students gain a profound understanding of the various spaces frequented by Jews, their daily practices, rituals, and philosophical perspectives. The diverse range of topics covered includes culinary preferences, sexual lifestyles, clothing, objects, and communal buildings. These documents serve as invaluable evidence of how Jews observed their Sabbath and holidays, celebrated weddings, births, and other significant lifecycle events, and mourned their deceased. Some sources specifically focus on the relationships they maintained with their Christian neighbors, local authorities, and the Church, while others shed light on their economic activities and professions.

Contributions from esteemed members of the Beyond the Elite: Jewish Daily Life in Medieval Europe research team, including Neta Bodner, Nureet Dermer, Aviya Doron, Miri Fenton, Etelle Kalaora, Albert Kohn, Andreas Lehnertz, Adi Namia-Cohen, Hannah Teddy Schachter, and Amit Shafran, enrich the depth and richness of this resource.

By delving into the lives of medieval Jews through this sourcebook, students gain a deeper appreciation for the complexity and diversity of Jewish communities during this historical period, shedding light on their contributions to society, culture, and religion.

Weight: 326g
Dimension: 156 x 235 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781580444781