History taster course at Goldsmiths, University of London

The class focuses on the position of Jews in medieval and early modern European society, and Christian responses to Judaism. An overview of the historical context of Jewish-Christian relations will include consideration of the expulsion and readmission of Jews in England, and the expulsions and forced conversions in Spain. In addition, using both textual and visual sources, we will explore some cultural themes, such as the blood libel and the 'wandering Jew'. Finally we will discuss the extent to which the roots of modern anti-Semitism may be traced to the medieval and early modern periods. As well as offering insights into the beliefs and mentalities of medieval and early modern Europe, the class also provides a perspective for considering one of the most notorious ideologies in modern history.