HSY1120 - Jews and Non-Jews in the Middle Ages

Leader: Paul Forgasz

Offered

Clayton Second semester 2007 (Day)

Synopsis

This unit deals with the social, cultural, political and economic experience of Jews in the Middle Ages, focusing in particular on a systematic comparison of Jewish life under the rule of medieval Islam and Christendom. The central question underpinning this course will be: why were medieval Islamic-Jewish relations, though not perfect, less confrontational and violent than those between Christians and Jews in the West?

Objectives

Upon successful completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Understand the interaction between Jews, Muslims and Christians in medieval Europe.
2. Compare the Jewish experience of medieval Christian and Islamic rule respectively.
3. Analyse the material, social, cultural and religious life of Jewish communities in Europe and the Mahgreb.
4. Analyse significant source material from the period under study.

Assessment

Document analysis (500 words): 10%;
Research essay (2000 words): 40%;
Exam 2 hours 50%

Contact hours

3 hours (2 lectures and 1 tutorial) per week

Prohibitions

JWC1040